256 LGBTQ+ Research Topics & Paper Ideas

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  • Icon Calendar 18 May 2024
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LGBTQ+ research paper topics span numerous disciplines, touching on societal, psychological, legal, and health-related aspects. Some themes include the exploration of historical changes in societal attitudes toward lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and more (LGBTQ+) rights, an analysis of mental health issues prevalent in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community, or the legal evolution and impacts of same-sex marriage. There also can be the roles that media and culture play in shaping perceptions of various identities or investigating the challenges faced in healthcare settings. Other topics may cover intersectionality within the LGBT community, dissecting influences of race, gender, and socioeconomic status. Hence, LGBTQ+ research paper topics can contribute to a better understanding of the complexities, triumphs, and challenges inherent in the LGBT experience.

Best LGBTQ+ Research Paper Topics

  • Examination of Mental Health Disparities Within the LGBTQ+ Community
  • Transgender Identity Development: An Exploratory Study
  • Media Representation of LGBTQ+ Characters: Impacts on Identity Formation
  • Influence of Religion on Attitudes Toward the LGBT Community
  • Employment Discrimination Experienced by Transgender Individuals
  • Changing Landscapes: Same-Sex Marriage and Societal Shifts
  • Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Youth: Navigating Coming Out in a Digital Age
  • Queer Theory: Origins, Evolution, and Applications
  • Psychological Impact of Gender Dysphoria Among Adolescents
  • Bisexuality: Erasure and Misunderstandings in Society
  • Intersectionality in LGBT Rights: Analyzing the Influence of Race and Class
  • Transformative Legal Milestones in the LGBTQ+ Civil Rights Movement
  • Gender Affirmation Surgery: A Study of Medical, Psychological, and Societal Aspects
  • Homonationalism: Its Role in LGBTQ+ Politics
  • Inclusion of LGBT Topics in School Curriculum: Effects and Controversies
  • Assimilation Versus Separation: Diverse Strategies in the Gay Rights Movement
  • Parental Acceptance: Its Effect on LGBT Youth Mental Health
  • Senior LGBTQ+ Individuals: Challenges and Needs
  • Safe Spaces: The Necessity and Creation in the LGBT Community
  • LGBTQ+ Individuals in Professional Sports: Representation and Reception
  • Impacts of Health Care Policies on Transgender Individuals

Easy LGBTQ+ Research Paper Topics

  • Body Image Concerns Among Gay Men: A Comprehensive Analysis
  • Influence of LGBT Representation in Children’s Media
  • Queer Immigrants: Unique Struggles and Contributions
  • Discrimination Faced by LGBT People in the Housing Market
  • Heteronormativity: Its Effects on LGBTQ+ Identity and Society
  • Same-Sex Parenting: A Study on Children’s Development and Well-being
  • Transgender Individuals in the Military: Policies and Experiences
  • Transphobia in Feminist Movements: Causes and Consequences
  • Cultural Differences in Acceptance of LGBTQ+ Individuals
  • Substance Use Disorders in the LGBT Community: Prevalence and Factors
  • Artistic Expression in the LGBTQ+ Community: Influence and Impact
  • Global Perspectives on Transgender Rights and Protections
  • Resilience Factors among LGBT Youth: An In-Depth Study
  • Decriminalizing Homosexuality: The Global Landscape
  • Queer Coding in Hollywood Cinema: History and Implications
  • Exploring Gender Fluidity: Personal Narratives and Social Perceptions
  • Roles of LGBT Activism in the HIV/AIDS Epidemic
  • Exploring Identity: The Interplay of Ethnicity and Sexuality
  • Mental Health Supports for LGBT College Students
  • Queer Spaces in Urban Landscapes: Significance and Transformation

 LGBTQ+ Research Topics & Paper Ideas

Interesting LGBTQ+ Research Paper Topics

  • History of the Pink Triangle: From Persecution to Empowerment
  • Two-Spirit People: Indigenous Perspectives on Gender and Sexuality
  • The Stonewall Riots: Legacy and Impact on the LGBTQ+ Movement
  • Social Support Systems and Their Role in LGBT Mental Health
  • The Intersection of LGBT Rights and Religious Freedom: A Critical Analysis
  • Medical Professionals’ Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Transgender Health Care
  • Influence of the Internet on LGBTQ+ Youth: Risks and Opportunities
  • The Evolution of LGBT Terminology: Reflecting Social Change
  • Homophobia in Sports: Causes, Consequences, and Mitigation Strategies
  • Transgender Representation in Literature: A Historical Overview
  • Coming Out at Work: Experiences and Implications for Career Progression
  • Studying Sexual Orientation: The Evolution of Scientific Understanding
  • Visibility and Representation of Intersex Individuals in Society
  • The Psychology of Bisexual Erasure: Causes and Consequences
  • LGBTQ+ Activists and Their Role in Shaping Modern Civil Rights
  • Legal Challenges and Advances in Transgender Rights Globally
  • The Role of Community Centers in LGBTQ+ Well-Being
  • Bullying Experiences of LGBT Students: Impacts on Academic Achievement
  • Intersection of Disability and LGBTQ+ Identity: Unique Challenges and Experiences
  • Homosexuality in Animals: What Can It Tell Us About Human Sexuality?
  • Understanding the Needs of Transgender Elders
  • The Role of Pride Parades in Shaping LGBT Identity and Community

LGBTQ+ Research Paper Topics for High School

  • Comparing Societal Acceptance of the LGBT Community Across Different Cultures
  • Influence of Social Media on LGBT Youth: A Closer Examination
  • Understanding Bisexuality: Prevalence, Perceptions, and Challenges
  • Representation of LGBT Characters in Modern Literature: Progress or Stereotypes?
  • Legal Struggles: The Evolution of LGBT Rights Over the Years
  • Roles of Education in Developing an LGBT-Inclusive Curriculum
  • Adoption Rights for LGBT Couples: A Comparative Study
  • Transgender People in Sports: Equity, Participation, and Policy
  • Intersectionality: Exploring the Overlap of Race and LGBT Identity
  • The Influence of Religion on LGBT Acceptance and Rejection
  • Mental Health Concerns within the LGBT Community: Causes and Solutions
  • Homophobia and Transphobia in Schools: Measures to Counteract
  • LGBT Seniors: Unique Challenges and Needs
  • Impact of Public Figures Coming Out on LGBT Visibility and Acceptance
  • Exploring Gay and Lesbian Language: A Study on Linguistic Identity
  • The Role of Art and Culture in LGBT Activism
  • Medical Perspectives: Healthcare Needs and Challenges of the LGBT Community
  • History of the Gay Rights Movement: Key Events and Turning Points
  • Exploring the Heterogeneity Within the LGBT Community: Differences and Similarities
  • Bisexual Erasure in the LGBT Community: Causes and Impacts

LGBTQ+ Research Paper Topics for College Students

  • Examining the Depiction of LGBTQ+ Characters in Modern Literature
  • Impacts of Laws on Transgender Individuals in Sports
  • Effects of LGBTQ+ Representation in Hollywood
  • The Psychological Impact of Coming Out: A Comprehensive Study
  • Health Care Inequalities Experienced by the LGBTQ+ Community
  • Attitudes Toward Homosexuality in Different Cultures
  • Examination of Gender Identity in Adolescence
  • Unveiling the History of the LGBTQ+ Rights Movement
  • Legal Challenges Faced by Transgender People
  • Analysis of Queer Themes in the Music Industry
  • Intersectionality of Race and Sexual Orientation in Discrimination
  • Same-Sex Marriage Laws and their Societal Impact
  • Parenting Styles in LGBTQ+ Families: A Comparative Study
  • Roles of Schools in Facilitating LGBTQ+ Inclusion
  • Religion’s Influence on Attitudes Toward Homosexuality
  • Transgender Youth and Mental Health: An In-Depth Study
  • Representation of Queer Characters in Video Games
  • Evaluating the Impact of Non-Binary Gender Recognition
  • Social Perceptions of Homosexuality in Sports
  • Effects of Workplace Discrimination on LGBTQ+ Employees
  • The Influence of Popular Culture on the Gay Rights Movement

LGBTQ+ Research Paper Topics for University

  • Implications of HIV/AIDS Stigma on the LGBTQ+ Community
  • Disparity in Substance Abuse Treatment for LGBTQ+ Individuals
  • Heteronormativity and Its Influence on LGBTQ+ Self-Perception
  • Aging in the LGBTQ+ Community: A Sociopsychological Study
  • Impacts of Gender-Affirming Healthcare on Transgender Individuals
  • Roles of Art and Theatre in LGBTQ+ Activism
  • Homophobia in the Military: Causes and Consequences
  • Public Opinion and Policy Making for LGBTQ+ Rights
  • Decriminalization of Homosexuality: Global Progress and Challenges
  • Understanding Asexuality: Overcoming Ignorance and Prejudice
  • Evolution of Queer Representation in Animated Series
  • LGBTQ+ Refugees: Issues of Acceptance and Integration
  • Same-Sex Parenting: Impacts on Child Development
  • Conversion Therapy and its Psychological Ramifications
  • Queer Coding in Cinema: Subtle Messages and Impacts
  • Transgender Individuals in Prison: Rights and Realities
  • Experiences of LGBTQ+ Individuals in Faith-Based Communities
  • Importance of Comprehensive Sex Education for LGBTQ+ Youth
  • Queer Theory: A Comprehensive Overview and Discussion
  • Adoption Rights for LGBTQ+ Couples: A Global Perspective
  • Understanding Bisexuality: Erasing Stereotypes and Misconceptions
  • Decoding the Transgender Narrative in Fashion Industry

LGBTQ+ Research Paper Topics on Transgender

  • Historical Evolution of Transgender Rights Movements
  • Social and Psychological Impacts of Transitioning for Transgender Individuals
  • Legal Frameworks for Transgender Rights: A Comparative Analysis
  • Intersectionality: Exploring Experiences of Transgender People of Color
  • Healthcare Disparities for Transgender Individuals: Challenges and Solutions
  • Understanding the Challenges and Supportive Approaches for Transgender Youth
  • Media and Pop Culture Representation of Transgender People: Progress and Pitfalls
  • Non-Binary Gender Spectrum: Exploring Transgender Identities
  • Navigating Parenthood and Family Dynamics: Transgender Parenting
  • Addressing Stigma and Promoting Well-Being: Transgender Mental Health
  • Employment Discrimination Against Transgender Individuals: Legal Perspectives
  • Unique Experiences and Care Needs: Transgender Aging
  • Challenges and Human Rights Issues for Transgender Refugees
  • Empowerment and Expression: Transgender Narratives in Literature and Art
  • Exploring Faith and Acceptance: Transgender Identity and Religion
  • Policies and Implications: Transgender Military Service
  • Equality, Fairness, and Inclusion: Transgender Sports Participation
  • Strategies and Successes: Transgender Rights Advocacy
  • Support Networks and Activism: Transgender Community Building
  • Inclusive Curriculum and Safe Learning Environments: Transgender Education

LGBTQ+ Research Topics About Gay Rights

  • The Impact of Same-Sex Marriage on Societal Attitudes and Norms
  • Examining the Role of Media Representation in Shaping LGBTQ+ Perceptions
  • Analyzing the Economic Benefits of LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusivity
  • Exploring the Challenges Faced by LGBTQ+ Youth in Educational Institutions
  • Investigating the Psychological Effects of Conversion Therapy on LGBTQ+ Individuals
  • Understanding the Intersectionality of Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation
  • Assessing the Legal Protections for Transgender Individuals in Employment
  • Examining the Relationship Between Religion and LGBTQ+ Acceptance
  • Investigating the Health Disparities Faced by LGBTQ+ Communities
  • Analyzing the Historical Evolution of LGBTQ+ Rights Movements
  • Exploring the Experiences of LGBTQ+ Individuals in Foster Care Systems
  • Assessing the Impact of Anti-Discrimination Laws on LGBTQ+ Mental Health
  • Understanding the Challenges Faced by LGBTQ+ Immigrants and Refugees
  • Investigating the Role of LGBTQ+ Supportive Families in Promoting Well-Being
  • Analyzing the Impact of LGBTQ+-Inclusive Sex Education on Teenage Pregnancy Rates
  • Exploring the Relationship Between LGBTQ+ Activism and Social Change
  • Understanding the Psychological Well-Being of LGBTQ+ Elderly Individuals
  • Investigating the Challenges Faced by LGBTQ+ Individuals in Sports
  • Analyzing the Role of LGBTQ+ Community Centers in Providing Support Services
  • Exploring the Intersection of LGBTQ+ Rights and Reproductive Rights
  • Assessing the Impact of LGBTQ+ Visibility in Popular Culture on Acceptance
  • Understanding the Experiences of LGBTQ+ Individuals in the Criminal Justice System
  • Investigating the Intersection of LGBTQ+ Rights and Disability Rights
  • Analyzing the Influence of LGBTQ+ Representation in Literature on Identity Formation

LGBTQ+ Research Topics About Human Sexuality

  • Exploring the Impact of LGBTQ+ Representation in Mainstream Media
  • Analyzing the Effects of Conversion Therapy on LGBTQ+ Individuals
  • Investigating the Role of Sexual Orientation in Mental Health Disorders
  • Examining the Intersectionality of Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation
  • Uncovering the Historical Evolution of LGBTQ+ Rights Movements
  • Understanding the Relationship Between Religion and LGBTQ+ Acceptance
  • Assessing the Psychological Well-Being of Transgender Youth
  • Evaluating the Influence of Parental Support on the Coming Out Process
  • Investigating the Experiences of LGBTQ+ Individuals in the Workplace
  • Analyzing the Impact of Homophobia on Health Outcomes in LGBTQ+ Communities
  • Exploring the Relationship Between Sexual Orientation and Substance Abuse
  • Examining the Role of LGBTQ+ Supportive Policies in Educational Institutions
  • Investigating the Factors Influencing LGBTQ+ Individuals’ Decision to Disclose Their Sexual Orientation
  • Analyzing the Mental Health Challenges Faced by Bisexual Individuals
  • Understanding the Experiences of LGBTQ+ Elders and Ageing Issues
  • Evaluating the Impact of LGBTQ+ Inclusive Sex Education on Teenagers
  • Investigating the Psychological Effects of Bullying on LGBTQ+ Youth
  • Exploring the Relationship Between Gender Identity and Body Image Satisfaction
  • Analyzing the Health Disparities Experienced by LGBTQ+ People of Color
  • Investigating the Stigma and Discrimination Faced by LGBTQ+ Immigrants
  • Examining the Impact of Transgender Healthcare Access on Overall Well-Being
  • Evaluating the Intersection of LGBTQ+ Identities and Disability

Discussion LGBTQ+ Research Topics

  • Impacts of Same-Sex Marriage on Society: A Comparative Analysis
  • Unveiling the Challenges Faced by Transgender Individuals in Healthcare Systems
  • Roles of Media Representation in Shaping Perceptions of LGBTQ+ Identities
  • Intersectionality of Race and Sexual Orientation in Contemporary Society
  • Psychological Effects of Conversion Therapy on LGBTQ+ Individuals
  • The Impact of LGBTQ+-Inclusive Sex Education Programs on Teenagers’ Well-Being
  • Economic Disparities Faced by LGBTQ+ Communities: An Intersectional Approach
  • Relationship Between Religious Beliefs and Acceptance of LGBTQ+ Individuals
  • Challenges Faced by LGBTQ+ Elders in Long-Term Care Facilities
  • The Impact of LGBTQ+ Representation in Children’s Literature on Social Attitudes
  • Understanding the Health Disparities Among LGBTQ+ Individuals: A Comprehensive Review
  • The Role of LGBTQ+ Supportive Organizations in Promoting Social Change
  • Stigmatization of Bisexuality in Heteronormative Society
  • The Impact of LGBTQ+ Rights Policies on the Global Tourism and Travel Industry
  • Experiences of LGBTQ+ Parents in Raising Children in Contemporary Society
  • The Role of Queer Spaces in Fostering LGBTQ+ Community Building and Resilience
  • Influence of Social Media on LGBTQ+ Identity Formation
  • Challenges Faced by LGBTQ+ Individuals in the Workplace: A Comparative Study
  • Health Disparities Among LGBTQ+ People of Color
  • The Impact of LGBTQ+-Inclusive Policies in Educational Institutions on Student Well-Being
  • Relationship Between LGBTQ+ Representation in the Entertainment Industry and Social Attitudes
  • Intersectionality of Gender Identity and Disability in LGBTQ+ Individuals

Argumentative LGBTQ+ Research Topics

  • LGBTQ+ Adoption Rights: Ensuring Equality and Family Stability
  • Transgender Rights in the Workplace: Challenging Discrimination and Promoting Inclusion
  • Homophobia in Sports: Breaking Barriers and Fostering Inclusivity
  • The Role of Education in Promoting Acceptance and Understanding of LGBTQ+ Individuals
  • Conversion Therapy: Debunking the Controversy and Advocating for a Ban
  • LGBTQ+ Representation in Media: Examining Progress and the Need for Authenticity
  • The Psychological Well-Being of LGBTQ+ Youth: Addressing Mental Health Disparities
  • Religion and Homosexuality: Finding Common Ground for Respectful Coexistence
  • LGBTQ+ Health Disparities: Bridging the Gap in Access to Care
  • LGBTQ+ Rights in Developing Countries: Challenges and Strategies for Progress
  • LGBTQ+ Aging and Elderly Care: Ensuring Support and Dignity for Older Adults
  • The Intersectionality of Race and LGBTQ+ Identity: Understanding and Combating Multiple Forms of Discrimination
  • Hate Crimes Against LGBTQ+ Individuals: Enhancing Legal Protection and Promoting Safety
  • LGBTQ+ Representation in Politics: Encouraging Diversity and Inclusion in Leadership
  • Gender Identity and Public Restrooms: Balancing Safety and Inclusivity
  • LGBTQ+ Rights and Global Human Rights: Assessing Progress and Identifying Challenges
  • The Economics of LGBTQ+ Equality: Exploring the Benefits of Inclusive Policies
  • LGBTQ+ Rights in Religious Institutions: Navigating Tradition and Modern Values
  • Bullying and Harassment in Schools: Creating Safe Spaces for LGBTQ+ Students
  • Transgender Healthcare: Addressing Access, Affordability, and Quality of Care

Pros and Cons LGBTQ+ Research Topics

  • Social Acceptance of LGBT Individuals: Advantages and Disadvantages
  • Employment Discrimination against LGBT Individuals: Pros and Cons
  • Same-Sex Marriage: Benefits and Drawbacks
  • LGBT Parenting: Positive and Negative Aspects
  • Transgender Rights: Pros and Cons
  • Conversion Therapy for LGBT Individuals: Benefits and Limitations
  • LGBT Representation in Media: Advantages and Disadvantages
  • Health Disparities in the LGBT Community: Pros and Cons of Research
  • LGBT Rights in Education: Benefits and Challenges
  • LGBT Youth Homelessness: Advantages and Disadvantages of Research
  • Intersectionality and LGBT Activism: Pros and Cons
  • Mental Health and LGBT Individuals: Advantages and Disadvantages of Research
  • Bullying and Harassment of LGBT Individuals: Pros and Cons
  • LGBT Aging and Elderly Care: Benefits and Challenges
  • LGBT Rights in the Workplace: Advantages and Drawbacks
  • Religious Perspectives on LGBT Rights: Pros and Cons
  • LGBT Health Services and Access: Advantages and Limitations
  • Legal Protections for LGBT Individuals: Pros and Cons
  • Gender Identity in Sports: Benefits and Concerns
  • LGBT Health Disparities in Minority Communities: Pros and Cons of Research
  • LGBT Rights in the Military: Advantages and Disadvantages
  • Transgender Healthcare: Benefits and Challenges

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140 LGBT Research Topics And Helpful Ideas For Students

LGBT Research Topics

One of the hardest parts of writing a great research paper about and LGBT issue is coming up with a good topic to research. There are a lot of LGBT research topics in discussion, but students can be overwhelmed with all the options. Our research paper writers have put together this list of unique LGBT research paper topics for consideration when writing for sociology.

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Issues related to transgender people and their rights have been at the forefront of the news in the past decade. Here are some topics worth consideration:

  • Why does the transgender community feel separated from the gay community?
  • How to tell your family and friends that you are transgender?
  • How does the medical community treat transgender people?
  • What does it mean to be accepted as transgender?
  • When does one decide to tell others that they are transgender?
  • What is the biggest challenge transgender people face in the workplace?
  • Are people that are transgender afforded the same rights?
  • What challenges do transgender people face in public spaces?
  • Do transgender people identify as gay?
  • What laws have limited the rights of transgender people?
  • How has religion oppressed transgender people?
  • What makes transgender youth such a difficult period in life?
  • What type of discrimination do transgender people face?
  • Can transgender people hold religious positions?

LGBT essay topics are great to write about because many discussions are occurring on the internet. Writing about controversial ideas is a great way to get the reader’s attention. Here are some great topics to consider:

  • Does age have a role in the way people respond to LGBT issues?
  • How can the LGBTQ community express personal traits?
  • Does personal fashion put the LGBT community at risk of harm?
  • How has our interpretation of sexuality changed in terms of psychology?
  • How does gender fluidity change how we view sexuality?
  • What does it mean to be “open” today?
  • What is paraphilia and how does it affect mental health?
  • How has our view of sexuality changed in the last half-century?
  • How has human sexuality research advanced in the last decade?
  • What is the meaning of human sexuality in the 21 st century?
  • What is considered healthy sexual behavior?
  • Is the LGBT community more likely to be promiscuous?
  • How does aging affect sexuality in the LGBT community?
  • Should teens be educated about sexuality at an earlier age?

When it comes to human rights, there are plenty of gay topics that will make great research assignments. Here are a few topics from MyPaperWriter (your helper type papers online ) to consider and think about to get the ball rolling:

  • What are some examples of the adversities the gay community faces?
  • How is the gay community discriminated against in the workplace?
  • What role do openly gay athletes play in promoting the rights of the LGBT community?
  • How did the activist groups of the 1970s help promote gay rights?
  • How have politicians of the 21 st century impacted gay rights?
  • In what ways have people used religion to diminish the rights of the LGBT community?
  • What impact did the protection of civil unions have in the U.S.?
  • Why do some states deny acknowledgment of civil unions from other states?
  • What effect did the incarceration of gay protestors have on the country?
  • What influence did Harvey Milk have in promoting the rights of the LGBT community?
  • How much have celebrities impacted the promotion of gay rights?
  • How have assassinations of prominent gay leaders helped the rights of gay people?
  • What has been the aftermath of the rights movements of the 1980s?
  • How much impact has the Human Rights Campaign had on the U.S.?

There are a ton of LGTBQ  research topics that can make for good discussion issues. The following ideas have been put together by our academic experts and can be easily researched on the web:

  • How do phrases like “it will get better” impact the LGBTQ community?
  • How has the sports community embraced people that identify as LGBT?
  • What role have filmmakers had in promoting the LGBTQ culture and community?
  • How has the current media affected the way we view the LGBT community?
  • How have professional athletes help promote the acceptance of the gay community?
  • What impact has Gay Pride Month had on social awareness?
  • Are people more likely to come out as LGBTQ in our current society?
  • What impact does religion have on the policy that denies LGBTQ rights?
  • How has the music community helped spread messages in support of gay rights?
  • The common effect of counterculture and the LGBT community?
  • Community efforts to mobilize work in LGBT communities.
  • Moving resources from the U.S. to third world countries will help?
  • The massive effort from the first world to third world nations.
  • Medical implants that go against cultural traditions.

Several transgender research questions are reaching the forefront of popular discussion. For those students interested in researching this area, the following topics might be interesting:

  • What is the current state of transgender rights in the U.S.?
  • What does science tell us about sexual orientation?
  • How have the legal rights of transgender people changed in the last 50 years?
  • In what ways is sexual orientation different from gender identity?
  • What role did the Stonewall Riots of 1969 have on transgender people?
  • The best ways to understand the current transgender phenomenon.
  • What are the major challenges between the transgender community and the gay community?
  • Should transgender athletes be allowed to compete in sports?
  • What is the best way to get Americans to consider diversity in society?
  • What impact did Bruce Jenner’s transition have on transgender acceptance?
  • How are transgender people discriminated against in the workplace?
  • At what age should transgender people identify with their chosen gender?
  • Does birth order affect whether a person may identify as LGBTQ?
  • What is the difference between a non-binary and a transgender person?

If you don’t have much time to conduct in-depth research, you need to consider a topic that is relatively easy to find information about. The following list of ideas are suitable for a project you need to get done quickly:

  • Changing cultural views when there is so much information to rely on.
  • Gender identity in the U.S. and how it impacts social norms.
  • The impact that video games have on human sexuality.
  • In what ways has the U.S. healthcare system made it difficult for the LGBTQ communities?
  • Violence against the LGBTQ communities over the decades.
  • How can we educate youth to be inclusive of the LGBTQ communities?
  • Discuss the relationship between the LGBT community and religious groups.
  • Will same-sex marriages ever be protected by federal law?
  • The impact that the Human Rights Campaign has had in raising awareness.
  • Gender issues in the workplace for women that identify as gay.
  • An examination of how acceptance of the LGBTQ community has evolved in the U.S.
  • In what ways does the LGBT community feel isolated?
  • What challenges and dangers do LGBT inmates face?
  • What are the best practices for political groups working to improve LGBT rights?

These LGBT project ideas are great for serious academic discussions. They cover a variety of issues and can be easily researched online and at the library. Just be sure you get your information from trustworthy sources:

  • What can schools do to improve LGBT inclusion on campuses?
  • Discuss the treatment of the LGBT community in the early 20 th
  • What are the divorce rates among same-sex marriages?
  • LGBT populations around the world.
  • Should LGBTQ people be allowed to hold high offices in religious organizations?
  • What are some unique challenges affecting LGBT communities?
  • How have gender roles changed as a result of LGBT communities?
  • Have employers done enough to implement anti-discriminatory practices?
  • The length of time it takes to identify sexual abnormalities.
  • In what ways does the internet affect LGBT communities?
  • Are there any LGBT-specific diseases?
  • Are LGBT couples better at raising children?
  • The effectiveness of LGBT support groups.
  • Should the military reconsider the acceptance of LGBT persons?

Here are some ideas that can be used for a research paper or a presentation. They are argumentative and allow students to encourage debate on a hot topic:

  • Are schools doing enough to support LGBT students?
  • Are LGBT couples more or less likely to divorce compared to straight couples?
  • Will the LGBT community thrive under the Biden administration?
  • Should the health community do more to reach out to LGBT people?
  • How can we learn more about the mental health of people in the LGBT community?
  • How important is it for professional athletes to come out?
  • How has the LGBT community been portrayed in media?
  • What challenges do same-sex couples face when adopting?
  • What are the biggest issues with same-sex marriage?
  • Are professional LGBT athletes afraid of discrimination?
  • Does the LGBT community get adequate medical attention?
  • What is the state of LGBT in militaries around the world?
  • How have LGBTQ people been portrayed on television?
  • How do adolescents identify with sexuality?

If you are working on a group project, the following LGBT thesis topics allow you to take in different perspectives and address several questions related to a single focus:

  • What are the biggest issues with LGBTQ hate crimes?
  • What is the history of LGBTQ rights in New York?
  • The portrayal of LGBTQ people in films.
  • Should the federal government add an anti-discrimination bill?
  • Should the government intervene with discriminatory practices in the workplace?
  • Is there worldwide support for same-sex marriages?
  • How effective is LGBT parenting?
  • Which religions are more likely to reject LGBT people in their congregations?
  • At what point was homosexuality considered an identity?
  • How has gender identity changed cultural norms?
  • What is the success rate for an LGBT marriage to a heterosexual person?
  • What has biological research shown us about sexual orientation?
  • How do reproductive technologies affect the LGBT community?
  • When did LGBT emerge as an identity?

These LGBT topics cover a wide variety of subjects that from legal issues to social issues. You should be able to find an ample amount of resources online and at the library:

  • How is gender identity differs from sexual orientation?
  • What are some inspirational coming-out stories?
  • How are people of LGBTQ communities being bullied?
  • Who are some of the most influential LGBTQ writers or artists?
  • Why do transgender people feel the need to “pass”?
  • What impact have LGBTQ film festivals had on encouraging visibility?
  • Are there any LGBT themes in the Bible?
  • Was there a period when the social climate was accepting of same-sex attraction?
  • What are the differences between gay and lesbian parenting?
  • Who are some pioneering LGBT activists?
  • Who is a person that has had a great influence on LGBT rights?
  • Why is asexuality misunderstood?
  • What are discrimination issues that are unique to LGBTQ?
  • What legal rights have changed for LGBT people in the last decade?

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LGBTQIA Studies : Research and topic suggestions

Arts & culture.

  • queer performance art
  • LGBTQIA+ writers
  • bullying in schools; opposition to anti-bullying efforts by those who want to maintain traditional gender roles and stereotypes
  • gender nonconforming children in schools
  • how people who identify as non-binary navigate a world that sees gender in binary terms
  • how nonbinary and transgender identities are similar and different
  • legal rights of transgender people
  • transgender visibility and "passing"
  • how sexual orientation (who you're attracted to) differs from gender identity (who you are)
  • LGBTQIA+ marches and political movements
  • LGBTQIA+ pioneers and activists
  • transgender history-- e.g., search transgender history in San Francisco
  • lesbian and gay history-- at what point did sexual behavior come to be seen as an identity?
  • history of bisexuality-- at what point was it recognized as an identity?
  • the influence of cultural norms and attitudes of a specific century or decade, and how/why people hid their feelings of same-sex attraction
  • was there a time period and location in which the social climate was more accepting of same-sex attraction and desire?
  • biography of a specific person in history whose trans identity or same-sex attraction was known or documented
  • Important Legislation for LGBTQIA+ people

International

  • contrast how LGBTQIA+ people experience life in other countries outside of the United States
  • compare and contrast laws and culture within the Asian continent
  • which countries are the most and least accepting of LGBTQIA+ people
  • LGBTQIA+ couples of differing nationalities-- can they live in the same country?
  • LGBTQIA+ rights worldwide (focusing on the "LGBTQIA+ climate" in a specific country or region)
  • how are transgender people transforming the medical establishment?
  • sexual orientation-- what does biological research tell us about it?
  • LGBTQIA+ mental health; research shows LGBTQIA+ people have higher overall rates of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse disorders
  • the diagnosis of "gender dysphoria" and how it has been reframed and is no longer a pathology
  • parenting as a trans, nonbinary or gender fluid person
  • lesbian and gay parenting and adoption
  • new reproductive technologies for LGBTQIA+ people
  • the history of how LGBTQIA+ people have or have not been integrated into the priesthood of a particular faith
  • what new elements have LGBTQIA+ people brought to a particular faith
  • LGBTQIA+ themes in the Bible;
  • use of the Bible to justify mistreatment of LGBTQIA people
  • What it's like to be gay and Muslim
  • Gay and Lesbian - Does God Love you?
  • 10 Reasons God Loves Gay Christians

Sexual Orientation

  • bisexuality and issues that are unique to bisexual people
  • asexuality-- what is means, how it is often misunderstood;
  • new efforts at asexual visibility coming out stories/ coming out process;
  • challenges to the concept of "coming out"

Society & Politics

  • recent backlash against LGBTQIA+ people
  • gender identity and America's (or another nation's) changing cultural norms
  • opposition to gay rights
  • discrimination and treatment in the workplace (search also phrases such as "openly gay teachers")
  • violence and bullying of LGBTQIA+ people
  • marriage of LGBTQIA+ people to heterosexuals in order to "pass" (especially in traditional cultures)
  • queer film festivals as a step toward visibility
  • same-sex marriage -- who supports it, who opposes it, and which countries have legalized it
  • Rainbow capitalism

Article Databases

Scholarly and nonscholarly articles on LGBTQ topics can be found in the following sources (accessible to current Northeastern affiliates)

Northeastern login or email required

For cultural studies, current events, political aspects, and all interdisciplinary topics:

For psychological aspects:, for sociological aspects:, for health aspects:, additional databases.

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  • URL: https://subjectguides.lib.neu.edu/LGBT

Written content on a narrow subject and published in a periodical or website. In some contexts, academics may use article as a shortened form of journal article.

  • Green Paper
  • Grey Literature

Bibliography

A detailed list of resources cited in an article, book, or other publication. Also called a List of References.

Call Number

A label of letters and/or numbers that tell you where the resource can be found in the library. Call numbers are displayed on print books and physical resources and correspond with a topic or subject area.

Peer Review

Well-regarded review process used by some academic journals. Relevant experts review articles for quality and originality before publication. Articles reviewed using this process are called peer reviewed articles. Less often, these articles are called refereed articles.

A search setting that removes search results based on source attributes. Limiters vary by database but often include publication date, material type, and language. Also called: filter or facet.

Dissertation

A paper written to fulfill requirements for a degree containing original research on a narrow topic. Also called a thesis.

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217 LGBTQ Research Topics & Title Ideas for Essays

The LGBTQ community has progressed in winning equal rights but still faces significant discrimination, and specific LGBT issues remain unresolved. If interested in this subject, look at our LGBTQ title ideas. You’ll find a list of LGBTQ research topics for your inspiration – feel free to use them for your debate, persuasive papers, and other assignments.

🌈 7 LGBTQ Research Topics – 2024

🏆 best lgbt essay topics, ❓ lgbt research questions, 👍 good lgbt research topics & essay examples, 📝 lgbt argumentative essay topics, 🌶️ catchy lgbtq title ideas for essays, 🎓 most interesting lgbtq topics to write about, 💡 simple lgbt topics for research papers, 🔥 hot lgbtq research paper topics.

  • Theories of Deviant Behavior: Homosexuality
  • Gay Marriage and Ethical Theories
  • Transgender Women in Sports
  • Cultural Satire in John Gay’s Beggar’s Opera
  • Homosexuality as a Problem in the Conflict Theory
  • Conflict Theories: Gay Marriages and Feminism
  • Argument Against LGBTQ Discrimination
  • The LGBT Community Theoretical Framework The main aim of this paper is to address the mobilization of resources as one of the frameworks that explain social movements. The LGBT framework emphasizes the importance of collectiveness.
  • LGBTQ (Queer) in English Language Learning Classrooms This study addresses the issue of the LGBTQ community’s underrepresentation in English language learning classrooms and in the curriculum.
  • Suicide Prevention in Teen Gays After They Come Out This proposal will recommend appropriate ways of rescuing LGBT youths from toxic environments that drive them to depression and commit suicide.
  • Gay-Friendly High Schools in Chicago Chicago officials have advocated for the creation of “gay-friendly high schools” for students who feel that schooling with pro-heterosexual students threats their safety.
  • Gay Marriage Should not be Legal Due to media popularization of gay rights, opposition of gay rights to marriage is normally equated to intolerance.
  • Homosexual and Heterosexual Families Are the Same Opponents of homosexual parenting advance the argument that children cared for by gay or lesbian partners do not fare as well as those brought up by heterosexual parents.
  • Gay and Lesbian Literature in the United States The paper is dedicated to the problem of gay and lesbian discrimination within the communities of people living in different countries.
  • LGBT Healthcare Disparity: Theoretical Framework The paper prepares research on LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) healthcare disparities and presents a literature review and theoretical framework.
  • LGBT Rights in Canada Canada’s progress toward legal equality of LGBT community testifies to the deep belief of its citizens in the fundamental values of democracy and freedom.
  • Disparity Accessing Health Care Services in LGBTQ+ Adopting legislative changes to enhance the lives of LGBTQ teens is the primary health strategy, including health policies and curriculum changes.
  • Transgender Prisoners and How They Are Treated According to international studies, transgender persons are a particularly defenseless population in the correctional structure, with their most necessities often being withheld.
  • The Portrayal of the LGBTQ+ Population in the Media Many scholars have investigated the portrayal of the LGBTQ+ population in the media, noting that it does not always reflect reality.
  • Should Homosexuals Have Children? One of the controversies on homosexuality includes the debate on whether same sex couples should be allowed to adopt children or acquire a family.
  • Should Gay and Lesbian Couples Be Allowed to Adopt? To protect the institution of marriage, gay couples should not be allowed to adopt children. Many religious institutions view marriage as the union between man and woman.
  • Transgender Women Athletes in Professional Sports The inclusivity and legal recognition suggest that transgender athletes are welcome to participate in competitive sport given they meet the established requirements.
  • Healthcare Disparities in the LGBT Community Apart from the disparities representatives of the LGBT community face in everyday life, they also deal with some major challenges as to their access to appropriate health care services.
  • Clinically and Culturally Competent Care for Transgender and Non-Binary People The analyzed review can be considered an essential step toward a better understanding of how to work with such groups.
  • Barriers to LGBT Health Care Access and Effective Nursing Interventions Globalization and cooperation are significant factors contributing to the advent of a wave of sexual and identity orientation.
  • Discussion of LGBT Discrimination in Modern Society Despite the fact that most states of the world and humanity as a whole are actively fighting to protect the rights of the LGBT community, discrimination is still relevant.
  • Changes in Perception on Same-Sex Marriage and LGBTQ+ People The paper states that acceptance of the LGBT community and marriage between people of the same sex is gradually beginning to appear in modern society.
  • Cultural Immersion Project: Interview with Lesbian The principal challenge of the interviewee’s daily routine is the lack of acceptance by her colleague, which is not directly expressed but still evident.
  • Analysis of LGBT Integration in Military The study examines integrating LGBT people into the army and identified the main points that influenced the formation of acceptance of gays, lesbians, and transsexuals.
  • Incorrect Interpretation: Everyone Is Gay on Tiktok The article’s main idea is that becoming pseudo gay — when close bodily contact, kisses, and hugs are shown only on video — is hugely beneficial to increase own popularity.
  • Experiences of LGBTQ Community Practicing BDSM The paper discusses the experiences of the LGBTQ community practicing BDSM and provides insights for health workers on proper service provision.
  • The Catholic Church and the LGBT Community The way Catholic Church officials address the tension around LGBT relations may vary: most remain silent, few express support, and few – disapproval.
  • The Case Lawrence v. Texas: The Violation of the Rights of Homosexuals The case Lawrence v. Texas determined that the violation of the rights of homosexuals was seen as a violation of constitutional rights.
  • Healthcare Disparities Among the LGBTQ+ (Queer) Veterans The aim is to conduct quantitative research to determine the perception of LGBTQ+ veterans in regard to their experiences with health services.
  • Parenting: Adoption of Homosexual Couples The paper states that good parenting is determined by the ability of the parent to establish a loving family, which does not depend on if they are homosexual.
  • Policies Addressing LGBT (Queer) Healthcare Disparities The paper states that despite the continuous growth of the LGBT community across the globe, they continue to face challenges within the healthcare system.
  • The Perspective on Homosexuality The paper states that the perspective on homosexuality has been skewed by the presence of biases and the lack of tolerance among the general population.
  • Impact of Sociocultural Factors on the Development of the LGBTQ Identity LGBTQ identity is influenced by different sources, family, peers, culture, and community all play their roles in identity development.
  • How to Get Others to Be More Open-Minded About LGBT People?
  • Which Iconic LGBT TV Character Are You Most Like?
  • How to Respond to Homophobic and Transphobic Attitudes Against LGBT People?
  • How to Respond to Rumors That Someone Is LGBT?
  • Does Bumble Work for LGBT?
  • How to Help LGBT Colleagues?
  • How to Respond to Heterosexual Friends or Coworkers Who Feel Negatively About a Person Who Is LGBT People?
  • What Should Say to Someone Who Is Afraid of Contracting HIV or Aids From LGBT People?
  • Are LGBT People More at Risk From COVID-19?
  • What Is the Difference Between Bisexual and Transgender LGBT People?
  • What Is the Nature of Same-Sex Relationships in an LGBT Family?
  • How Do People Know if They Are LGBT?
  • How Can I Tell if Someone I Know Is LGBT?
  • Why Should Healthcare Professionals Consider LGBT Communities?
  • Can LGBT People Change Their Sexual Orientation?
  • How to Respond to People Who Object to LGBT People for Religious Reasons?
  • What Is the Connection Between Bullying and LGBT Youth?
  • How to Respond When Someone Tells a Homophobic Joke Against LGBT People?
  • Why Are People LGBT?
  • How to Make Your Work More LGBT Friendly?
  • How to Become an LGBT Ally 2022?
  • Can LGBT People Be Good Parents?
  • Why Is It Important to Celebrate LGBT?
  • How Can I Become Myself More Approachable to People Who Are LGBT People?
  • The Fight for $15 Movement vs. the Transgender Law Center For an examination of non-profit organizations, it will be convenient to use case studies. The Fight for $15 movement and the Transgender Law Center will be used as comparisons.
  • The LGBTQ (Queer) Identity Development The purpose of this paper is to evaluate factors that impact the development of the LGBTQ identity from the position of sociocultural theory.
  • Underrepresentation of the LGBTQ (Queer) Community in English Language Teaching As the dominant culture becomes more and more accepting, the number of LGBTQ individuals who uncover their identity is growing.
  • Health Disparities of Transgender Population The problem is centered around the healthcare inequality experienced by members of the transgender community, where the barriers include financial factors and discrimination.
  • Transgender People in the Olympic Games The new guidelines state that transgender athletes may be permitted to compete in the Olympics without undergoing sex reassignment surgery.
  • Violence in LGBT (Queer) Couples Violence in LGBT couples is a serious societal problem that can affect the well-being of many citizens. Suicide risk factors are much more common within the LGBT community.
  • The Effects of Discrimination That LGBT Persons Encounter The paper focuses on the effects of discrimination that LGBT persons encounter. They never interfere with the lives of people who do not relate to the LGBT community.
  • Transgender People in Prisons: Rights Violations There are many instances of how transgender rights are violated in jails: from misgendering from the staff and other prisoners to isolation and refusal to provide healthcare.
  • Ethical Relativism Regarding Queer (LGBTQ+) Community Ethical relativism does not always support tolerance toward minorities, such as the LGBTQ+ community, since it depends on the either personal or societal approach.
  • Recognition of Human Rights for LGBT Individuals The paper discusses the importance of studying the issue of LGBTQ people discrimination, including its causes, harmful effects, and current state.
  • Parenting Peculiarities in Queer (LGBT) Families An examination of LGBT marriages has shown that same-sex partners have varied parenting desires, intentions, and child-rearing experiences.
  • Family Therapy Related to a Child’s Homosexuality This case study focuses on a 16-year-old African American male who disclosed his homosexuality to his parents, who are religious people and do not accept their son’s sexuality.
  • Aspects of LGBTQ+ Community Values Acceptance and striving for equality represent the main features of the LGBTQ+ community. Acceptance provides the unifying kernel for marginalized strugglers.
  • Resolving Discrimination Against Queer (LGBTQ) Community The article focuses on practical measures that can be governed to ensure that LGBTQ people are not discriminated against and violated.
  • The Lesbian Family Impact on Canadian Society In this paper, an attempt will be made to explain the advantages of a lesbian family and the potential benefits for Canadian society.
  • Transgender People: Prejudice and Discrimination Transgender remains a stereotyped sexual identity, and these individuals face prejudice from critics, religious leaders, and the vast majority of society.
  • Transgender Health Disparities and Solutions People who identify as transgender, intersex, gender non-conforming, or gender diverse have exacerbated health disparities compared to other people.
  • Florida’s Bill ”Don’t Say Gay” The “Don’t Say Gay” bill should not be published because it will put the mental and physical well-being of LGBTQ+ students in danger and normalize censorship in the classroom.
  • Cause and Effect of Queer (LGBTQ+) Discrimination The LGBTQ+ community has continued to experience discrimination in various settings. The results of these factors include social segregation, unemployment, etc.
  • Queer (LGBT) Hiring Policy’s Purpose and Authority Organizational consulting specialists (policy-makers) try to implement a new hiring policy regarding the LGBT population in the administrative processes of company performance.
  • Gay Marriage Redefines the True Meaning of Family This literature review aims to illustrate how the legalization of gay marriage helped redefine the meaning of family and argues that it transformed the social role of the unit.
  • Mental Healthcare Services for Transgender Individuals This research paper suggests a range of options to treat mental health and related illnesses among the non-binary populations.
  • Queer (LGBTQ) Community as a Social Problem in Canada The Canadian government has shown interest in LGBTQ matters in recent years. Canadian queer persons are more likely to be victims of violent crime.
  • Media Coverage of Transgender Policy in Military This paper aims to provide an annotated bibliography for the ten articles related to the topic of media coverage of transgender policy in the military.
  • Homosexuality: History and Theoretical Perspective This paper will discuss the history of homosexuality from the perspective of three theoretical lenses. The first theory to review homosexuality is structural functionalism.
  • The Gay and Lesbian Rights Movement of the 1960s The purpose of this paper is to discuss the gay and lesbian rights movement of the 1960s and indicate its incredible importance.
  • The Problem of Violence Against LGBTQ People: Critical Analysis The perspective on psychological problems is most relevant to LGBTQ problems, as their psychological health is typically influenced by society and culture rather than genetics.
  • Homosexuality Perceptions in Mexican Culture The paper identifies the societal reactions and perceptions of homosexuality in Mexican culture and analyzes the social position of homosexual people.
  • Transgender Support Group Meeting and Its Importance The transgender support groups allow people to connect and talk about issues that they have faced in their lives.
  • Transgender Movement: Overview and Importance Ultimately, policies, guidelines, or steps ensure that the social change that the transgender movement is yearning for can be realized.
  • Transgender Offenders in the Criminal Justice System The transgender population who are incarcerated often faces various unique challenges which expose them to vulnerabilities both physical and mental.
  • Is same-sex marriage morally acceptable?
  • Should same-sex parenting be legal?
  • Should transgender conversion therapy be banned?
  • LGBT media portrayals are vital for normalizing diverse relationships.
  • Should schools introduce gender-neutral bathrooms?
  • Should school anti-bullying policies specifically address homophobia and transphobia?
  • Are LGBT pride parades effective in raising awareness and advocating equal rights?
  • Should schools develop policies to accommodate students’ preferred pronouns?
  • Should countries grant asylum to people persecuted for their sexual orientation?
  • Can businesses turn LGBT individuals away because of religious beliefs?
  • Is Being Homosexual a Choice or Inherent? The current essay discusses various perspectives to answer the question of whether homosexuality is a choice or inherent.
  • Global LGBTQ Health and Health Issues Although there has been rapid progress in the inclusion of LGBTQ people, they continue to face many health disparities, hence their poor health outcomes across the world.
  • Transgender Health Care in the USA: Then and Now The change of physical appearance or function through clothing, medical, surgical, or other means often becomes part of the personal gender experience of a transgender person.
  • Suicide Risk Factors in Queer (LGBTQ) Community Stigma and prejudice about a particular group of people may cause adverse consequences for their health and overall quality of life.
  • Why We Shouldn’t Compare Transracial and Transgender Identities To compare transracial identity with transgender identity is to reduce both to a set of immutable rules, be it rules of biology or society – and this is a very wrong approach.
  • LGBT Populations and Health When addressing the health issues where minorities are involved, the LGBT population has been neglected in more than one instance.
  • Conflict Between Transgender Theory, Ethics, and Scientific Community This essay aims to give answers to questions of ethics within the transgender topic and research fraud based on scholarly articles and presentations by Dr. Q Van Meter.
  • The Gay Marriage: Legal Arguments For and Against The Constitution not only legitimizes gay marriage but implies that the government should never have considered a ban and should instead actively pursue legalizing gay marriage.
  • Affordable Care Act for LGBTQ Populations The paper will provide a detailed description of the Affordable Care Act, indicate its supporting and opposing aspects, and analyze its impact on LGBTQ populations.
  • The Problem of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Youth Suicidality Recently, there was a sharp increase in cases of suicides committed by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer youth.
  • Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Activism This paper aims at exploring the background of LGBTQ activism, the oppression that its members experience, the measures they take, and the opposition that hinders their progress.
  • Transgender Care: Challenges, Implications In a healthcare setting not putting effort into ensuring diverse patient groups are treated with professional finesse with no regard for their differences is a timely issue.
  • Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual People and Primary Healthcare Services The researchers argue that patient reticence about disclosing their homosexuality elevates the risk of incomplete histories being taken.
  • Should Gay Marriage Rights Be a State or Federal Law? If the issue of same-sex marriage is left to the states, some of them would probably recognize it, while others would not.
  • Mental Health Disparities Among LGBT Community LGBT people are at higher risk of suicide, anxiety, substance abuse, and eating disorders. LGBT people are 2 to 3 times more likely to attempt suicide.
  • Gay Marriage: Support of the Legalization Gay marriage remains a controversial topic of public debate and discussion that is often rooted in religious beliefs and various definitions of marriage.
  • Arrest Histories of High-Risk Gay and Bisexual Men in Miami: Article Analysis Arrest history was closely connected to many aspects of the syndemic theory of gay/bisexual men’s health disparities.
  • The Reluctance of Gay, Lesbian Victims to Report Domestic Violence Members of the gay community suffer from domestic violence in almost the same magnitude as members of the heterosexual community.
  • Critical Thinking and Transgender Ethics Sexual orientation and preference is a debated and complex topic involving biological aspects, including hormones, which can alter and change people’s behavior and feelings.
  • Religious Liberties and LGBTQ Employment Discrimination Reforms The biggest resistance to LGBTQ rights has been religion, with members of society who disapprove of homosexuality.
  • Gay and Lesbian Adoption: Normalizing a Healthy Childhood This research paper will examine the legal framework of same-sex adoption in the US and Europe, review its socioeconomic, health-related and psychological implications.
  • Hate Crimes Against Homosexuals in American Colleges Although hate crime is a setback for many students in college and universities, individuals LGBT are more likely to be exposed to a particularly difficult path.
  • Reproductive Health Care and the LGBTQ Community The purpose of this paper is to outline the competent treatment for those LGBTQ who are seeking reproductive care.
  • Trump Administration and Transgender Discrimination The paper reviews one of the recent issues that caught the public eye and media attention is the Trump administration’s treatment of transgender people’s healthcare rights.
  • Social Prejudice Kills LGBTQ Community Representatives Society must change its attitude and liquidate prejudice among the LGBTQ community members, as the consequences of these attitudes are disastrous.
  • ‘Why Shouldn’t Tommy and Jim Have Sex?’ by J. Corvino: Defense of Homosexuality The article written by John Corvino is a short series of paragraphs defending homosexual relationships. The reason is through an abstract example, which is two men, Tommy and Jim.
  • Canadian LGBT Progress Overview and Analysis The LGBT progress in Canada is particularly relevant to Canadian Studies. One of the primary issues of these studies is exploring the matters of identity.
  • Media Representation of Gay and Lesbian Parented It is alleged that the media often fails to represent the normal privacy and individuality of a heterosexual family.
  • Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell: Gays in the Us Military Homosexuals in the military have always had to hide their sexual orientation to prevent discrimination, incrimination, or even discharge from service.
  • LGBT Minority in Higher Education This paper has, as its main objective, the need to show that in contemporary American society, the LGBT minority has witnessed increased attention.
  • Gays in the Military: Current Situation and Problems While much effort is being put in to allow the marriage of persons of the same sex, this has not affected the military, since homosexuals are barred from taking up in the military.
  • Homosexual Rights on a Historical Timeline Homosexuals are people, they have rights and should be able to live without discrimination and prejudice. Heterosexuals or homosexuals should be treated with respect as equals.
  • Gay Rights and ACT UP Struggle ACT UP struggle shows that gay men deprived human rights and have to fight against oppression and discrimination so they should be protected by the state from negative social image.
  • Gay and Poverty Marriage The institution of family and the issues of marriage play a crucial role in society today. Marriage status determines relations between spouses and their relations with the state.
  • The Issue of the Gay-Marriage Movement in the United States Gay people should have the right to marry because constitution is aimed to protect social and sexual rights of all people and all citizens of the USA.
  • Gay Marriages in the Media: Different Opinions About the Question Gay marriages are rather common affairs in modern world. Many countries began to think about legalization of same-sex marriages.
  • Gay Marriages Legalization: Arguments Against Proponents of same-sex marriages argue that legalization would grant same-sex marriages equal rights and benefits with heterosexual marriages.
  • The Issues of Gay Parents Scholars have noted a few differences in the characters of children brought up in same sex- marriages and those brought up in conventional ones.
  • Controversy on Gay Marriage in the U.S. The paper explores the question of the legalization of gay marriage and provides arguments on the positive sides of that for American society.
  • Gay Marriages Legality Discussion Gay marriage is a union that is characterized by the joining together between spouses of similar sex and which is acknowledged legally like the vows of a conventional marriage.
  • Gender Non-Conforming or Transgender Children Care The purpose of this paper is to discuss the challenges to be aware of when working with gender non-conforming or transgender children and adolescents.
  • Transgender People’s Challenges Within Healthcare This paper aims to discuss the challenges in healthcare that the transgender community faces and how the challenges affect their overall health outcome.
  • Transgender Care by Healthcare Professionals Transgender patients require healthcare professionals who are conversant with their experiences and who can treat them with utmost respect and dignity.
  • Transgender People and Healthcare Barriers This essay aims to explain the barriers that prevent transgender people from receiving quality care and suggest improvements that can be implemented in current medical institutions.
  • Health Problems of the LGBT Community in the United States It is possible to state with certainty that the health problems of the LGBT community in the United States are various.
  • Gay and Single-Parent Families: Functionalist View The application of the functionalist perspective helps to resolve some problems by outlining the importance of issues and their contribution to the evolution of communities.
  • HIV Among Caucasian, African American, and Latino Homosexual Men Creating awareness at the community level would play a significant role in reducing the number of new HIV infections among Caucasian, African American, and Latino homosexual men.
  • Transgender Bias in News Coverage In the context of increasing LGBTQ activism and recognition, transgenderism faces the greatest controversy and public backlash.
  • Transgender Children’s Issues in Society The topic of transgender children in society proves to be divisive and is widely discussed by parents, teachers, clinicians, and politicians.
  • The Issue of Transgender Discrimination Despite numerous attempts to eliminate biased attitude, transgender people still face different challenges that deteriorate results of treatment.
  • Gay Community and Heterosexism in Language When speaking of gay people, they were often referred to as homosexual in the past. “Gay” is probably the only identity label that gay individuals reclaimed these days.
  • Transgender Community and Heterosexism in Language The term “transgender” became commonly used only by the end of the 20th century. Not all transgenders commenced using this and preferred to pass as a different gender.
  • Media Shapes History: Gay Liberation Movement By the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the portrayal of gay and queer folk in the US had vastly improved. This, in turn, had a positive effect on the Gay Liberation Movement.
  • Economic Justice: LGBTQ Individuals Economic justice cannot be achieved by using force. Until we learn to understand and accept LGBT people, no punishments of their offenders can secure their economic position.
  • Homosexuality and Adolescence Development This report discusses issues related to transgender disorders and homosexuality and considers social, cognitive, and physical development in adolescence.
  • Healthcare System: Transgender Patients Discrimination According to the statistics, almost 1 million Americans identifies themselves as transgender, making it a numerous population subgroup that is likely to expand in the future.
  • Transgender Patients Problem and the Consequences of Discrimination Transgender patients come across different forms of harassment and do not have the same access to services as other people do.
  • Homosexuality as Percieved in American Society This paper will examine the independent variables of religious affiliation, race, and gender that have an impact on the attitude towards same-sex marriage in the US.
  • Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Children This paper discusses the issues a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner should be aware of when interacting with transgender and gender non-conforming children and adolescents.
  • Homosexuality as a Genetic Characteristic The debate about whether homosexuality is an inherent or social parameter can be deemed as one of the most thoroughly discussed issues in the contemporary society.
  • Transgender Patients and Health Care Challenges One of the challenges encountered by transgender patients refers to the lack of adequate access to healthcare services.
  • Transgender Care and Health Care Professionals Despite the adoption of policies aimed at limiting discrimination, transgender people still face daily challenges in the aspects of employment, education, and healthcare access.
  • Transgender Healthcare Barriers in the United States This paper examines central barriers to high-quality health care and includes practices employed to address the issue and some recommendations.
  • The Spreading of HIV Across the Gay Men A thorough study of the age distribution of the HIV-positive gay men population would be the first step to determining an effective prevention strategy.
  • LGBT Community Portrayals in Traditional News The research identifies how the LGBT community is portrayed by traditional news and finds out if any signs of discrimination or unfair treatment are demonstrated.
  • Reducing HIV Amongst Gay and Bisexual Men in Florida There are many misconceptions regarding the passage of HIV among men with different sexual preferences.
  • Transgender Patients: Challenges & Discrimination in Healthcare It is worth noting that the concept of transgenderism implies a state of internal imbalance between the real and desired gender of an individual.
  • Healthcare Challenges of Transgender Patients Transgender individuals have health problems common for the whole population and frequently face challenges in healthcare settings related to inadequate healthcare.
  • Marriage Equality: LGBT Couples’ Constitutional Issues This essay explores the constitutional issue of marriage equality for married same-sex partners that still face discrimination, as shows the example of the case of Pavan v. Smith.
  • Lesbian and Gay Patients’ Medical Care and Education If all the specialists work jointly, there will be a chance to reduce the indicators of the infection and achieve positive results in fighting against HIV among gay men.
  • Transgender Patients and Challenges in Health Care The community remains predominantly marginalized, with policies and laws denying them recognition of their gender, making accessing health care very challenging.
  • Capitalism and Gay Identity by D’Emilio and Berube In this paper, the author will review the link between gay identity and capitalism from the perspective of two essays written by D’Emilio and Berube.
  • Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Patients’ Therapy The current quality of managing the needs of the representatives of the LGBT community needs a significant improvement.
  • LGBT Community in Chicago Chicago is considered to be a major center for the LGBT community. The city has a long history of the movement, dating back to the early 1920s.
  • Transgender Patients and Nursing Health Management There is a growing recognition today among health care providers and researchers that patients’ transgenderism may become a factor in their care.
  • Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender in Hospital The paper discusses the cultural competency concept since it appears to be of critical importance for the profound understanding of the problems of the LGBT community.
  • Challenges to Transgender Patients Despite the recent attention to the issues of transgender people, the level of discrimination against them is still incredibly high.
  • Transgender Issues in Cis- and Trans-Made Movies This paper discusses the implications of transgender and transsexual experience from the outside and from within, particularly how they are represented and how the public sees it.
  • Challenges of Transgender Patients Transgender patients have to face a certain amount of resistance and discrimination in society regularly, this group of people has to deal with certain challenges in the health care arena.
  • Discrimination Faced by Transgender Patients Contemporary hospitals are not designed for transgender people, therefore, they can have many troubles there ranging from the unfriendly environment of a hospital and doctors.
  • Transgender-Associated Stigma in Healthcare Transgender individuals are people who assume a gender definition of identity that differs from gender assigned to them at birth.
  • Epidemics of HIV in Gay Men Given that epidemics of HIV in gay men are on the rise in most countries, it is essential to diagnose the disease early.
  • The Problem of Addressing HIV in Gay Populations The challenges are presented by men’s unawareness of their infection, discrimination and stigma problem, and undiagnosed sexually transmitted diseases.
  • Transgender and Problems with Healthcare Services Transgender individuals find it difficult to approach physicians because it is difficult for them to reach needed treatment.
  • Transgender People in Healthcare Facilities Gender nonconforming and transgender people face discrimination in almost every sphere of human activity. It has a negative impact on the access of these groups to primary care.
  • Transgender, Its History and Development Transgender is not a new concept and people have discussed the issues associated with it since the 19th century.
  • Healthcare Needs of the LGBT Community Pinning down how long the problem of meeting LGBT members’ healthcare needs has been around is rather problematic because of the social controversy around the subject matter.
  • Problems of Transgender Patients in Health Care A number of transgender patients admit cases of discrimination from the health care workers. From 30% to 60% of the representatives of this group face biased attitude.
  • Transgender Discrimination in Health Care This paper investigates the discrimination that transgender persons are subjected to in the health care setting in more detail.
  • Successful Struggle of Canadian LGBT Community The Canadian LGBT community has managed to achieve its ultimate goal: official recognition of their rights, including the right to legal marriage in 2005.
  • Transgender Community’s Treatment in Healthcare This paper discusses the transgender community and the discrimination that affects them every day, especially in healthcare, and how we can help stop it.
  • The Health Problems that LGBT People Face Health Policy and Advocacy is a core nursing essential that most pertain to the issue of LGBTQ health promotion. The essential’s rationale is to advance social justice values.
  • “The Construction of Homosexuality” a Book by David Greenberg The book, The Construction of Homosexuality by David Greenberg presents the reflection of the author on historical timeline of the struggle by homosexuals to get their rights.
  • Sidesteps Broad Gay Marriage Ruling The article, “Sidesteps Broad Gay Marriage Ruling,” by Peralta Eyder, explores the controversial 2013 ruling against the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) by the US Supreme Court.
  • Addressing HIV Prevalence among Gay Men This discussion outlines the strategic measures at the community level to address increased prevalence of HIV cases among Caucasian, African American and Latino gay men.
  • The Gay Human Rights: Harvey Milk Contributions Harvey Milk and his contribution in the struggle to preserve gay human rights are discussed from a theoretical perspective. This paper provides an in-depth understanding of gay human rights.
  • Morals Metaphysics: Criminal Punishment and Gay Basics It is not wrong to punish a criminal primarily as a means to reform the criminal. Execution is not the only just penalty for murder as two wrongs do not make a right.
  • Homosexuality From a Christian Point of View In the Old Testament, every person knew that homosexuality was an abominable sin, hated and disgusting even to mention.
  • For and Against of Gay Marriage Same-sex marriages is a union that takes place between two people who belong to the same social gender or similar biological sex.
  • Homosexuality in Canada Homosexuality can be explained in three main dimensions: biological, behavioral and psychodynamic dimensions of homosexual orientations.
  • Supreme Court Justice: Homosexual Marriages The question of homosexual relations and untraditional marriages remains to be open for a long period of time. It is hard to make all people choose the same position and stick to it all the time.
  • Relationships: Different Views on Gay Marriage Gay marriage is a topical issue caused by different perceptions and understanding of human nature and interpersonal relations. The approaches towards gay marriage are liberal and conservative.
  • The effects of coming out experiences on LGBT people’s mental well-being.
  • The root causes of LGBTQ youth homelessness.
  • The role of social media in LGBTQ activism.
  • LGBT parents’ experiences when seeking healthcare for their children.
  • Unique challenges of providing care for LGBT older adults.
  • The impact of conversion therapy on mental health.
  • Suicide risk in LGBT adolescents and protective factors.
  • Patterns of LGBT hate crimes and prevention strategies.
  • Queer art as the intersection of creativity and social activism.
  • The importance of parental support for LGBTQ individuals.

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StudyCorgi . 2021. "217 LGBTQ Research Topics & Title Ideas for Essays." September 9, 2021. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/lgbt-essay-topics/.

These essay examples and topics on LGBTQ were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

This essay topic collection was updated on June 24, 2024 .

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131 Interesting LGBT Research Paper Topics

lgbt research paper topics

Are you looking for the best LGBTQ research topics? We have some of the best thesis, research, dissertation, and assignment topics for you. If you are not sure how to go about the research we can offer writing help. While in college or university you need to do your best to acquire top grades. Our prices are cheap without compromising the quality of the work.

There are many interesting topics that you can research about the LGBT community. Society, media, films, and other channels are slowly adopting this community. Laws and rights are also being enacted for the benefit of the community. We hope you will find a great topic that will help you get a deeper understanding of your course unit.

Latest LGBT Research Paper Topics

These are some of the latest LGBT research topics that you can use for your project. However, you will need to be fully dedicated to getting the best out of it.

  • Sexual orientation among teenagers
  • LGBT society recognition.
  • LGBT stigmatization and bullying.
  • Social rights enhanced on LGBT people.
  • How to deal with LGBT discrimination.
  • The best way to educate people on gay rights.
  • The effects of stigmatization and discrimination of LGBT.
  • Advantages and disadvantages of coming out of the closet as a gay individual.
  • How homosexuality is highlighted in the Bible.
  • Effects of LGBT rights in different religions.

Interesting LGBT Thesis Topics

Are you looking for an interesting thesis topic that you can use in your academics? Well, look no further. We have highlighted the best that will make your field research easy.

  • Traditional culture colliding with LGBT rights
  • Recent techniques developed in reproduction among gay couples
  • Churches opinion in LGBT
  • Children raised by gay couples
  • A day in the life of a gay person
  • Same-gender marriage in the church
  • Discovery of gay marriages
  • The impact of society on the mental health of LGBT people.
  • The depression rates of LGBT people.
  • High risks facing the LGBT community in society.

LGBT Discussion Questions For University Students

Do you want to discuss this with some of your course-mates? These are some discussion topics that you can start with. They are easy, simple, and straight to the point.

  • What makes a teenager/adolescent not come out of the closet?
  • How can bullying of LGBT people be stopped?
  • What initiates LGBT people being stigmatized?
  • Has the third gender gained full recognition worldwide?
  • What are the challenges faced by gay parents?
  • Why most LGBT teenagers end up do depressed?
  • Is having gay parents good for a child?
  • Who is a third-gender individual?
  • Why are some countries not supporting LGBT?
  • How does one discover his or her sexual orientation?

Easy LGBT Essay Topics

LGBT essay topics aren’t hard. The way you view them can either give you a positive or negative attitude towards them. Try out any of these topics and get a different view.

  • Views on the third gender.
  • Importance of recognizing and appreciating the third gender.
  • Gay parenting is being embraced globally.
  • Employment discrimination among gay people.
  • Legalization of gay marriages.
  • Protecting the LGBT society.
  • Social media influence on LGBT.
  • Myths and misconceptions about LGBT.
  • Social movements related to LGBT.
  • Discuss whether the gay and lesbian perception is a mental disorder?

Transgender Research Paper Topics

There are many transgenders around the world. However, it is hard to come out in a society full of judgemental people. Here are some of the best transgender research paper topics.

  • Discrimination against transgender people
  • Appreciating the transgender individuals in the community
  • Pronouns used for transgender individuals and their meanings
  • Sexual harassment among transgender individuals
  • Reasons why one may want to change gender
  • Challenges faced by transgender individuals in the society
  • Being transgender as a self-identity.
  • Diversity acceptance of transgender individuals.
  • The treatment of transgender children and teenagers.
  • Stigma against transgender individuals.

Easy LGBT Topics for Research Papers

Are you looking for an online expert to help you with your research paper? We have the best expertise to ensure you get nothing but the best.

  • The gender non-conforming children in school.
  • The basic legal rights for transgender people.
  • How sexual orientation differs from gender identity.
  • The impact of violence and bullying of the LGBTQIA people.
  • The history of the LGBTQIA – was there a time it was morally accepted?
  • At what time was bisexuality recognized as an identity?
  • The new reproductive technologies for LGBTQIA people.
  • The new modes of asexual visibility.
  • The unique issues related to bisexuality in the modern world.
  • The influence of cultural norms and attitudes on people hiding the same-sex attraction feelings.

LGBT Discussion Topics for Your Research Paper

Here are some of the best LGBT research topics. They are simple, easy, and straightforward. However, you need to discuss them thoroughly to get top grades.

  • In lesbian and gay history, when was this sexual behavior seen as an identity?
  • The impact LGBT parents have on their children.
  • The injustices faced by LGBT youth in juvenile or prison.
  • The best ways to reduce suicide cases in the LGBT community.
  • The best forms to raise awareness for the LGBT community are in the various institutions.
  • Discuss the LGBT community from a sociological perspective.
  • The progress of LGBT awareness in mass media and communication channels.
  • The importance of intersectionality when thinking about LGBT issues.
  • The disparity in healthcare for the LGBT people.
  • The legalization of gay marriages worldwide.

Interesting Gay Rights Research Paper Topics

Did you know that the LGBT community has designated rights, freedom, and laws? These LGBT project ideas can help you to get a deeper understanding of what gays can and cannot do.

  • The gay marriage and the changing family unit.
  • Television depictions of homosexuality.
  • The gay and lesbian representation in Eastern Literature.
  • The various laws that protect gays and lesbians.
  • The history of the gay liberation front.
  • The social problems faced by gay and lesbian homeless youth.
  • The divorce statistics of same-sex marriages.
  • How the law undermines the rights of gays and lesbians.
  • The future of LGBT rights – will it be positive or negative?
  • Adoption rights for LGBT couples.

Easy Transgender Research Questions

Do you want to write a quality paper, but don’t have enough time? You don’t need to look for professional research paper writers anymore. We will help you out. If these transgender research topics don’t favor you, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

  • Who is a transgender, non-conforming, genderqueer and non-binary person?
  • Which is the best way to ask for someone’s gender identity?
  • What are the hardships that Trans people face in society?
  • Why does society give the LBGT community a hard time?
  • Is being transgender a mental disorder?
  • How does someone know that they are transgender?
  • How prevalent are transgender people?
  • What are the different types of transgender people?
  • What are the major differences between sex and gender?
  • How do transsexuals make a gender transition?

LGBT Writing Prompts for College Students

These are some of the best LGBT writing prompts that can help you do an interesting research paper. We have stated some of the best LGBT topics for research papers.

  • Does a transgender woman retain the rights she had before transitioning?
  • The barriers related to access to healthcare by transgender women.
  • The effects of anti-homosexuality legislation in the community.
  • Are children too young to know their gender?
  • What does hormone therapy do?
  • The LGBT community and urban change.
  • How the church provides counseling for the LGBT community?
  • How does the Church perceive gay rights?
  • Sexual orientation and school discipline.
  • Racial exclusion in the LGBT community.

Best Gay Topics for Your Course Work

These gay topics will ultimately make you get a better understanding of the LGBT community. They revolve around real-world situations and society’s perception of them.

  • The domestic violence in the LGBT community
  • The effect of poverty on the LGBT community.
  • Discrimination against the LGBT community.
  • Raising awareness of LGBT bullying.
  • Exploring queer relationships
  • The biological theories of homosexuality.
  • Male perspectives on lesbians and gays.
  • The LGBT themes as described in the Bible.
  • The gender roles in the family and society
  • How the LGBT community is being affected by sexual violence?

Controversial Human Sexuality Topics

Some issues are normally controversial and sensitive. These are some of the topics that fall under that category. Do enough research and you will get a deeper understanding of the phenomena.

  • The race-gender subordination and education.
  • The pressing issues for LGBTQ students.
  • The various psychological dimensions of human sexuality
  • The age children should be taught about sexuality.
  • Elaborate on the consensual non-monogamy.
  • The role of language in empowering the LGBT community
  • Do you think homophobia exists within the LGBT community
  • The association of the rainbow colors with the LGBT community.
  • The best films are based on LGBT rights and activism.
  • The challenges faced by the LGBT community.

LGBT Group Discussion Topics

If you want to pass in your academics, you need to write a professional paper. These are some of the best LGBT group discussion topics that you can start with.

  • What is the impact of feminism on LGBT rights between the 1950s and 1970s?
  • Should the LGBT community individuals hold a high position in various institutions?
  • Should same-sex parents be allowed to adopt children?
  • What do you think causes rampant drug addiction in the LGBT community?
  • Should LGBT teachers be offered protection while working at school?
  • The various special stories of commitment and love in the LGBT community.
  • The changing psychological perspectives of homosexuality.
  • Which are the social pressures of children of lesbians and gay parents?
  • The perspective of homosexuality in the 21 st century.
  • Why do you think there is a need for LGBT centers in schools, colleges, and workplaces?
  • How has the LGBT community contributed to TV and film production?

Don’t Want To Write Your Thesis?

Finding an ideal research topic can take your time. However, once you find one, ensure it aligns with your course, is approved by your professor, and has relevant resources. You may choose a topic then it ends up being so hard to work on. Hence, be careful about your choice of a research topic. If in doubt or lacking enough time to do your research paper. You may consult us and we will help you do your research project.

198 Art History Thesis Topics

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research lgbt topics

What does the scholarly research say about the effect of gender transition on transgender well-being?

We conducted a systematic literature review of all peer-reviewed articles published in English between 1991 and June 2017 that assess the effect of gender transition on transgender well-being. We identified 55 studies that consist of primary research on this topic, of which 51 (93%) found that gender transition improves the overall well-being of transgender people, while 4 (7%) report mixed or null findings. We found no studies concluding that gender transition causes overall harm. As an added resource, we separately include 17 additional studies that consist of literature reviews and practitioner guidelines.

Bottom Line

This search found a robust international consensus in the peer-reviewed literature that gender transition, including medical treatments such as hormone therapy and surgeries, improves the overall well-being of transgender individuals. The literature also indicates that greater availability of medical and social support for gender transition contributes to better quality of life for those who identify as transgender.

Below are the 8 findings of our review, and links to the 72 studies on which they are based. Click here to view our methodology . Click here for a printer-friendly one-pager of this research analysis .

Suggested Citation : What We Know Project, Cornell University, “What Does the Scholarly Research Say about the Effect of Gender Transition on Transgender Well-Being?” (online literature review), 2018.

Research Findings

1. The scholarly literature makes clear that gender transition is effective in treating gender dysphoria and can significantly improve the well-being of transgender individuals.

2. Among the positive outcomes of gender transition and related medical treatments for transgender individuals are improved quality of life, greater relationship satisfaction, higher self-esteem and confidence, and reductions in anxiety, depression, suicidality, and substance use.

3. The positive impact of gender transition on transgender well-being has grown considerably in recent years, as both surgical techniques and social support have improved.

4. Regrets following gender transition are extremely rare and have become even rarer as both surgical techniques and social support have improved. Pooling data from numerous studies demonstrates a regret rate ranging from .3 percent to 3.8 percent. Regrets are most likely to result from a lack of social support after transition or poor surgical outcomes using older techniques.

5. Factors that are predictive of success in the treatment of gender dysphoria include adequate preparation and mental health support prior to treatment, proper follow-up care from knowledgeable providers, consistent family and social support, and high-quality surgical outcomes (when surgery is involved).

6. Transgender individuals, particularly those who cannot access treatment for gender dysphoria or who encounter unsupportive social environments, are more likely than the general population to experience health challenges such as depression, anxiety, suicidality and minority stress. While gender transition can mitigate these challenges, the health and well-being of transgender people can be harmed by stigmatizing and discriminatory treatment.

7. An inherent limitation in the field of transgender health research is that it is difficult to conduct prospective studies or randomized control trials of treatments for gender dysphoria because of the individualized nature of treatment, the varying and unequal circumstances of population members, the small size of the known transgender population, and the ethical issues involved in withholding an effective treatment from those who need it.

8. Transgender outcomes research is still evolving and has been limited by the historical stigma against conducting research in this field. More research is needed to adequately characterize and address the needs of the transgender population.

Below are 51 studies that found that gender transition improves the well-being of transgender people. Click here to jump to 4 studies that contain mixed or null findings on the effect of gender transition on transgender well-being. Click here to jump to 17 studies that consist of literature reviews or guidelines that help advance knowledge about the effect of gender transition on transgender well-being.

Ainsworth and spiegel, 2010.

Quality of life of individuals with and without facial feminization surgery or gender reassignment surgery.

Ainsworth, T., & Spiegel, J. (2010). Quality of life of individuals with and without facial feminization surgery or gender reassignment surgery. Quality of Life Research , 19 (7), 1019-1024.

Objectives: To determine the self-reported quality of life of male-to-female (MTF) transgendered individuals and how this quality of life is influenced by facial feminization and gender reassignment surgery. Methods: Facial Feminization Surgery outcomes evaluation survey and the SF-36v2 quality of life survey were administered to male-to-female transgender individuals via the Internet and on paper. A total of 247 MTF participants were enrolled in the study. Results: Mental health-related quality of life was statistically diminished (P < 0.05) in transgendered women without surgical intervention compared to the general female population and transwomen who had gender reassignment surgery (GRS), facial feminization surgery (FFS), or both. There was no statistically significant difference in the mental health-related quality of life among transgendered women who had GRS, FFS, or both. Participants who had FFS scored statistically higher (P < 0.01) than those who did not in the FFS outcomes evaluation. Conclusions: Transwomen have diminished mental health-related quality of life compared with the general female population. However, surgical treatments (e.g. FFS, GRS, or both) are associated with improved mental health-related quality of life.

Bailey, Ellis, & McNeil, 2014

Suicide risk in the UK trans population and the role of gender transition in decreasing suicidal ideation and suicide attempt

Bailey, L., Ellis, S. J., & McNeil, J. (2014). Suicide risk in the UK trans population and the role of gender transition in decreasing suicidal ideation and suicide attempt. The Mental Health Review , 19 (4), 209-220.

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to present findings from the Trans Mental Health Study (McNeil et al., 2012) – the largest survey of the UK trans population to date and the first to explore trans mental health and well-being within a UK context. Findings around suicidal ideation and suicide attempt are presented and the impact of gender dysphoria, minority stress and medical delay, in particular, are highlighted. Design/methodology/approach: This represents a narrative analysis of qualitative sections of a survey that utilised both open and closed questions. The study drew on a non-random sample (n 1⁄4 889), obtained via a range of UK-based support organisations and services. Findings: The study revealed high rates of suicidal ideation (84 per cent lifetime prevalence) and attempted suicide (48 per cent lifetime prevalence) within this sample. A supportive environment for social transition and timely access to gender reassignment, for those who required it, emerged as key protective factors. Subsequently, gender dysphoria, confusion/denial about gender, fears around transitioning, gender reassignment treatment delays and refusals, and social stigma increased suicide risk within this sample. Research limitations/implications: Due to the limitations of undertaking research with this population, the research is not demographically representative. Practical implications: The study found that trans people are most at risk prior to social and/or medical transition and that, in many cases, trans people who require access to hormones and surgery can be left unsupported for dangerously long periods of time. The paper highlights the devastating impact that delaying or denying gender reassignment treatment can have and urges commissioners and practitioners to prioritise timely intervention and support. Originality/value: The first exploration of suicidal ideation and suicide attempt within the UK trans population revealing key findings pertaining to social and medical transition, crucial for policy makers, commissioners and practitioners working across gender identity services, mental health services and suicide prevention.

Bar et al., 2016

Male-to-female transitions: Implications for occupational performance, health, and life satisfaction

Bar, M. A., Jarus, T., Wada, M., Rechtman, L., & Noy, E. (2016). Male-to-female transitions: Implications for occupational performance, health, and life satisfaction. The Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy , 83 (2), 72-82.

Background. People who undergo a gender transition process experience changes in different everyday occupations. These changes may impact their health and life satisfaction. Purpose. This study examined the difference in the occupational performance history scales (occupational identity, competence, and settings) between male-to-female transgender women and cisgender women and the relation of these scales to health and life satisfaction. Method. Twenty-two transgender women and 22 matched cisgender women completed a demographic questionnaire and three reliable measures in this cross-sectional study. Data were analyzed using a two-way analysis of variance and multiple linear regressions. Findings. The results indicate lower performance scores for the transgender women. In addition, occupational settings and group membership (transgender and cisgender groups) were found to be predictors of life satisfaction. Implications. The present study supports the role of occupational therapy in promoting occupational identity and competence of transgender women and giving special attention to their social and physical environment.

Bodlund and Kullgren, 1996

Transsexualism--general outcome and prognostic factors: a five-year follow-up study of nineteen transsexuals in the process of changing sex

Bodlund, O., & Kullgren, G. (1996). Transsexualism–general outcome and prognostic factors: A five-year follow-up study of nineteen transsexuals in the process of changing sex. Archives of Sexual Behavior , 25 (3), 303-316.

Nineteen transsexuals, approved for sex reassignement, were followed-up after 5 years. Outcome was evaluated as changes in seven areas of social, psychological, and psychiatric functioning. At baseline the patients were evaluated according to axis I, II, V (DSM-III-R), SCID screen, SASB (Structural Analysis of Social Behavior), and DMT (Defense Mechanism Test). At follow-up all but 1 were treated with contrary sex hormones, 12 had completed sex reassignment surgery, and 3 females were waiting for phalloplasty. One male transsexual regretted the decision to change sex and had quit the process. Two transsexuals had still not had any surgery due to older age or ambivalence. Overall, 68% (n = 13) had improved in at least two areas of functioning. In 3 cases (16%) outcome were judged as unsatisfactory and one of those regarded sex change as a failure. Another 3 patients were mainly unchanged after 5 years. Female transsexuals had a slightly better outcome, especially concerning establishing and maintaining partnerships and improvement in socio-economic status compared to male transsexuals. Baseline factors associated with negative outcome (unchanged or worsened) were presence of a personality disorder and high number of fulfilled axis II criteria. SCID screen assessments had high prognostic power. Negative self-image, according to SASB, predicted a negative outcome, whereas DMT variables were not correlated to outcome.

Bouman et al., 2016

Sociodemographic Variables, Clinical Features, and the Role of Preassessment Cross-Sex Hormones in Older Trans People.

Bouman, W. P., Claes, L., Marshall, E., Pinner, G. T., Longworth, J., et al. (2016). Sociodemographic variables, clinical features, and the role of preassessment cross-sex hormones in older trans people. The Journal of Sexual Medicine , 13 (4), 711-719.

Introduction: As referrals to gender identity clinics have increased dramatically over the last few years, no studies focusing on older trans people seeking treatment are available. Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of older trans people attending a national service and to investigate the influence of cross-sex hormones (CHT) on psychopathology. Methods: Individuals over the age of 50 years old referred to a national gender identity clinic during a 30-month period were invited to complete a battery of questionnaires to measure psychopathology and clinical characteristics. Individuals on cross-sex hormones prior to the assessment were compared with those not on treatment for different variables measuring psychopathology. Main Outcome Measures: Sociodemographic and clinical variables and measures of depression and anxiety (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), self-esteem (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale), victimization (Experiences of Transphobia Scale), social support (Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support), interpersonal functioning (Inventory of Interpersonal Problems), and nonsuicidal self-injury (Self-Injury Questionnaire). Results: The sex ratio of trans females aged 50 years and older compared to trans males was 23.7:1. Trans males were removed for the analysis due to their small number (n = 3). Participants included 71 trans females over the age of 50, of whom the vast majority were white, employed or retired, and divorced and had children. Trans females on CHT who came out as trans and transitioned at an earlier age were significantly less anxious, reported higher levels of self-esteem, and presented with fewer socialization problems. When controlling for socialization problems, differences in levels of anxiety but not self-esteem remained. Conclusion: The use of cross-sex hormones prior to seeking treatment is widespread among older trans females and appears to be associated with psychological benefits. Existing barriers to access CHT for older trans people may need to be re-examined.

Boza and Nicholson, 2014

Gender-Related Victimization, Perceived Social Support, and Predictors of Depression Among Transgender Australians

Boza, C., & Nicholson Perry, K. (2014). Gender-related victimization, perceived social support, and predictors of depression among transgender Australians. International Journal Of Transgenderism , 15 (1), 35-52.

This study examined mental health outcomes, gender-related victimization, perceived social support, and predictors of depression among 243 transgender Australians (n= 83 assigned female at birth, n= 160 assigned male at birth). Overall, 69% reported at least 1 instance of victimization, 59% endorsed depressive symptoms, and 44% reported a previous suicide attempt. Social support emerged as the most significant predictor of depressive symptoms (p>.05), whereby persons endorsing higher levels of overall perceived social support tended to endorse lower levels of depressive symptoms. Second to social support, persons who endorsed having had some form of gender affirmative surgery were significantly more likely to present with lower symptoms of depression. Contrary to expectations, victimization did not reach significance as an independent risk factor of depression (p=.053). The pervasiveness of victimization, depression, and attempted suicide represents a major health concern and highlights the need to facilitate culturally sensitive health care provision.

Budge et al., 2013

Transgender Emotional and Coping Processes

Budge, S. L., Katz-Wise, S. L., Tebbe, E. N., Howard, K. A. S., Schneider, C. L., et al. (2013). Transgender emotional and coping processes: Facilitative and avoidant coping throughout gender transitioning. The Counseling Psychologist , 41 (4), 601-647.

Eighteen transgender-identified individuals participated in semi-structured interviews regarding emotional and coping processes throughout their gender transition. The authors used grounded theory to conceptualize and analyze the data. There were three distinct phases through which the participants described emotional and coping experiences: (a) pretransition, (b) during the transition, and (c) posttransition. Five separate themes emerged, including descriptions of coping mechanisms, emotional hardship, lack of support, positive social support, and affirmative emotional experiences. The authors developed a model to describe the role of coping mechanisms and support experienced throughout the transition process. As participants continued through their transitions, emotional hardships lessened and they used facilitative coping mechanisms that in turn led to affirmative emotional experiences. The results of this study are indicative of the importance of guiding transgender individuals through facilitative coping experiences and providing social support throughout the transition process. Implications for counselors and for future research are discussed.

Cardoso da Silva et al., 2016

Before and After Sex Reassignment Surgery in Brazilian Male-to-Female Transsexual Individuals

Cardoso da Silva, D., Schwarz, K., Fontanari, A.M.V., Costa, A.B., Massuda, R., et al. (2016). WHOQOL-100 Before and after sex reassignment surgery in Brazilian male-to-female transsexual individuals. Journal of Sexual Medicine , 13 (6), 988-993.

Introduction: The 100-item World Health Organization Quality of Life Assessment (WHOQOL-100) evaluates quality of life as a subjective and multidimensional construct. Currently, particularly in Brazil, there are controversies concerning quality of life after sex reassignment surgery (SRS). Aim: To assess the impact of surgical interventions on quality of life of 47 Brazilian male-to-female transsexual individuals using the WHOQOL-100. Methods: This was a prospective cohort study using the WHOQOL-100 and sociodemographic questions for individuals diagnosed with gender identity disorder according to criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition. The protocol was used when a transsexual person entered the ambulatory clinic and at least 12 months after SRS. Main Outcome Measures: Initially, improvement or worsening of quality of life was assessed using 6 domains and 24 facets. Subsequently, quality of life was assessed for individuals who underwent new surgical interventions and those who did not undergo these procedures 1 year after SRS. Results: The participants showed significant improvement after SRS in domains II (psychological) and IV (social relationships) of the WHOQOL-100. In contrast, domains I (physical health) and III (level of independence) were significantly worse after SRS. Individuals who underwent additional surgery had a decrease in quality of life reflected in domains II and IV. During statistical analysis, all results were controlled for variations in demographic characteristics, without significant results. Conclusion: The WHOQOL-100 is an important instrument to evaluate the quality of life of male-to-female transsexuals during different stages of treatment. SRS promotes the improvement of psychological aspects and social relationships. However, even 1 year after SRS, male-to-female transsexuals continue to report problems in physical health and difficulty in recovering their independence.

(Due to a citation error, this study was initially listed twice.)

Castellano et al., 2015

Quality of life and hormones after sex reassignment surgery

Castellano, E., Crespi, C., Dell’Aquila, R., Rosato, C., Catalano, V., et al. (2015). Quality of life and hormones after sex reassignment surgery.  Journal of Endocrinological Investigation , 38 (12), 1373-1381.

Background: Transpeople often look for sex reassignment surgery (SRS) to improve their quality of life (QoL). The hormonal therapy has many positive effects before and after SRS. There are no studies about correlation between hormonal status and QoL after SRS. Aim: To gather information on QoL, quality of sexual life and body image in transpeople at least 2 years after SRS, to compare these results with a control group and to evaluate the relations between the chosen items and hormonal status. Subjects and methods: Data from 60 transsexuals and from 60 healthy matched controls were collected. Testosterone, estradiol, LH and World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-100) self-reported questionnaire were evaluated. Student’s t test was applied to compare transsexuals and controls. Multiple regression model was applied to evaluate WHOQOL’s chosen items and LH. Results: The QoL and the quality of body image scores in transpeople were not statistically different from the matched control groups’ ones. In the sexual life subscale, transwomen’s scores were similar to biological women’s ones, whereas transmen’s scores were statistically lower than biological men’s ones (P = 0.003). The quality of sexual life scored statistically lower in transmen than in transwomen (P = 0.048). A significant inverse relationship between LH and body image and between LH and quality of sexual life was found. Conclusions: This study highlights general satisfaction after SRS. In particular, transpeople’s QoL turns out to be similar to Italian matched controls. LH resulted inversely correlated to body image and sexual life scores.

Colizzi, Costa, & Todarello, 2014

Transsexual patients' psychiatric comorbidity and positive effect of cross-sex hormonal treatment on mental health: results from a longitudinal study

Colizzi, M., Costa, R. & Todarello, O. (2014). Transsexual patients’ psychiatric comorbidity and positive effect of cross-sex hormonal treatment on mental health: Results from a longitudinal study.  Psychoneuroendocrinology , 39 , 65-73.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the presence of psychiatric diseases/symptoms in transsexual patients and to compare psychiatric distress related to the hormonal intervention in a one year follow-up assessment. We investigated 118 patients before starting the hormonal therapy and after about 12 months. We used the SCID-I to determine major mental disorders and functional impairment. We used the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) for evaluating self-reported anxiety and depression. We used the Symptom Checklist 90-R (SCL-90-R) for assessing self-reported global psychological symptoms. Seventeen patients (14%) had a DSM-IV-TR axis I psychiatric comorbidity. At enrollment the mean SAS score was above the normal range. The mean SDS and SCL-90-R scores were on the normal range except for SCL-90-R anxiety subscale. When treated, patients reported lower SAS, SDS and SCL-90-R scores, with statistically significant differences. Psychiatric distress and functional impairment were present in a significantly higher percentage of patients before starting the hormonal treatment than after 12 months (50% vs. 17% for anxiety; 42% vs. 23% for depression; 24% vs. 11% for psychological symptoms; 23% vs. 10% for functional impairment). The results revealed that the majority of transsexual patients have no psychiatric comorbidity, suggesting that transsexualism is not necessarily associated with severe comorbid psychiatric findings. The condition, however, seemed to be associated with subthreshold anxiety/depression, psychological symptoms and functional impairment. Moreover, treated patients reported less psychiatric distress. Therefore, hormonal treatment seemed to have a positive effect on transsexual patients’ mental health.

Colizzi et al., 2013

Hormonal treatment reduces psychobiological distress in gender identity disorder, independently of the attachment style

Colizzi. M., Costa, R., Pace, V., & Todarello, O. (2013). Hormonal treatment reduces psychobiological distress in gender identity disorder, independently of the attachment style. The Journal of Sexual Medicine , 10 (12), 3049–3058.

Introduction: Gender identity disorder may be a stressful situation. Hormonal treatment seemed to improve the general health as it reduces psychological and social distress. The attachment style seemed to regulate distress in insecure individuals as they are more exposed to hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal system dysregulation and subjective stress. Aim: The objectives of the study were to evaluate the presence of psychobiological distress and insecure attachment in transsexuals and to study their stress levels with reference to the hormonal treatment and the attachment pattern. Methods: We investigated 70 transsexual patients. We measured the cortisol levels and the perceived stress before starting the hormonal therapy and after about 12 months. We studied the representation of attachment in transsexuals by a backward investigation in the relations between them and their caregivers. Main Outcome Measures: We used blood samples for assessing cortisol awakening response (CAR); we used the Perceived Stress Scale for evaluating self‐reported perceived stress and the Adult Attachment Interview to determine attachment styles. Results: At enrollment, transsexuals reported elevated CAR; their values were out of normal. They expressed higher perceived stress and more attachment insecurity, with respect to normative sample data. When treated with hormone therapy, transsexuals reported significantly lower CAR (P < 0.001), falling within the normal range for cortisol levels. Treated transsexuals showed also lower perceived stress (P < 0.001), with levels similar to normative samples. The insecure attachment styles were associated with higher CAR and perceived stress in untreated transsexuals (P < 0.01). Treated transsexuals did not expressed significant differences in CAR and perceived stress by attachment. Conclusion: Our results suggested that untreated patients suffer from a higher degree of stress and that attachment insecurity negatively impacts the stress management. Initiating the hormonal treatment seemed to have a positive effect in reducing stress levels, whatever the attachment style may be.

Colton-Meier et al., 2011

The Effects of Hormonal Gender Affirmation Treatment on Mental Health in Female-to-Male Transsexuals

Colton-Meier, S. L., Fitzgerald, K. M., Pardo, S. T., & Babcock, J. (2011). The effects of hormonal gender affirmation treatment on mental health in female-to-male transsexuals. Journal of Gay & Lesbian Mental Health , 15 (3), 281-299.

Hormonal interventions are an often-sought option for transgender individuals seeking to medically transition to an authentic gender. Current literature stresses that the effects and associated risks of hormone regimens should be monitored and well understood by health care providers (Feldman & Bockting, 2003). However, the positive psychological effects following hormone replacement therapy as a gender affirming treatment have not been adequately researched. This study examined the relationship of hormone replacement therapy, specifically testosterone, with various mental health outcomes in an Internet sample of more than 400 self-identified female-to-male transsexuals. Results of the study indicate that female-to-male transsexuals who receive testosterone have lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress, and higher levels of social support and health related quality of life. Testosterone use was not related to problems with drugs, alcohol, or suicidality. Overall findings provide clear evidence that HRT is associated with improved mental health outcomes in female-to-male transsexuals.

Costantino et al., 2013

A prospective study on sexual function and mood in female-to-male transsexuals during testosterone administration and after sex reassignment surgery

Costantino, A., Cerpolini, S., Alvisi, S., Morselli, P. G., Venturoli, S., & Meriggiola, M. C. (2013). A prospective study on sexual function and mood in female-to-male transsexuals during testosterone administration and after sex reassignment surgery. Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy , 39 (4), 321-335.

Testosterone administration in female-to-male transsexual subjects aims to develop and maintain the characteristics of the desired sex. Very little data exists on its effects on sexuality of female-to-male transsexuals. The aim of this study was to evaluate sexual function and mood of female-to-male transsexuals from their first visit, throughout testosterone administration and after sex reassignment surgery. Participants were 50 female-to-male transsexual subjects who completed questionnaires assessing sexual parameters and mood. The authors measured reproductive hormones and hematological parameters. The results suggest a positive effect of testosterone treatment on sexual function and mood in female-to-male transsexual subjects.

Davis and Meier, 2014

Effects of Testosterone Treatment and Chest Reconstruction Surgery on Mental Health and Sexuality in Female-To-Male Transgender People

Davis, S. A. & Meier, S. C. (2014). Effects of testosterone treatment and chest reconstruction surgery on mental health and sexuality in female-to-male transgender people. International Journal of Sexual Health , 26 (2), 113-128.

Objectives: This study examined the effects of testosterone treatment with or without chest reconstruction surgery (CRS) on mental health in female-to-male transgender people (FTMs). Methods: More than 200 FTMs completed a written survey including quantitative scales to measure symptoms of anxiety and depression, feelings of anger, and body dissatisfaction, as well as qualitative questions assessing shifts in sexuality after the initiation of testosterone. Fifty-seven percent of participants were taking testosterone and 40% had undergone CRS. Results: Cross-sectional analysis using a between-subjects multivariate analysis of variance showed that participants who were receiving testosterone endorsed fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression as well as less anger than the untreated group. Participants who had CRS in addition to testosterone reported less body dissatisfaction than both the testosterone-only or the untreated groups. Furthermore, participants who were injecting testosterone on a weekly basis showed significantly less anger compared with those injecting every other week. In qualitative reports, more than 50% of participants described increased sexual attraction to nontransgender men after taking testosterone. Conclusions: Results indicate that testosterone treatment in FTMs is associated with a positive effect on mental health on measures of depression, anxiety, and anger, while CRS appears to be more important for the alleviation of body dissatisfaction. The findings have particular relevance for counselors and health care providers serving FTM and gender-variant people considering medical gender transition.

De Cuypere et al., 2006

Long-term follow-up: psychosocial outcome of Belgian transsexuals after sex reassignment surgery

De Cuypere, G., Elaut, E., Heylens, G., Maele, G. V., Selvaggi, G., et al. (2006). Long-term follow-up: Psychosocial outcome of Belgian transsexuals after sex reassignment surgery. Sexologies , 15 (2), 126-133.

Background: To establish the benefit of sex reassignment surgery (SRS) for persons with a gender identity disorder, follow-up studies comprising large numbers of operated transsexuals are still needed. Aims: The authors wanted to assess how the transsexuals who had been treated by the Ghent multidisciplinary gender team since 1985, were functioning psychologically, socially and professionally after a longer period. They also explored some prognostic factors with a view to refining the procedure. Method: From 107 Dutch-speaking transsexuals who had undergone SRS between 1986 and 2001, 62 (35 male-to-females and 27 female-to-males) completed various questionnaires and were personally interviewed by researchers, who had not been involved in the subjects’ initial assessment or treatment. Results: On the GAF (DSM-IV) scale the female-to-male transsexuals scored significantly higher than the male-to-females (85.2 versus 76.2). While no difference in psychological functioning (SCL-90) was observed between the study group and a normal population, subjects with a pre-existing psychopathology were found to have retained more psychological symptoms. The subjects proclaimed an overall positive change in their family and social life. None of them showed any regrets about the SRS. A homosexual orientation, a younger age when applying for SRS, and an attractive physical appearance were positive prognostic factors. Conclusion: While sex reassignment treatment is an effective therapy for transsexuals, also in the long term, the postoperative transsexual remains a fragile person in some respects.

Dhejne et al., 2014

An analysis of all applications for sex reassignment surgery in Sweden, 1960-2010: prevalence, incidence, and regrets

Dhejne, C., Öberg, K., Arver, S., & Landén, M. (2014). An analysis of all applications for sex reassignment surgery in sweden, 1960-2010: Prevalence, incidence, and regrets. Archives of Sexual Behavior , 43 (8), 1535-1545.

Incidence and prevalence of applications in Sweden for legal and surgical sex reassignment were examined over a 50-year period (1960-2010), including the legal and surgical reversal applications. A total of 767 people (289 natal females and 478 natal males) applied for legal and surgical sex reassignment. Out of these, 89 % (252 female-to-males [FM] and 429 male-to-females [MF]) received a new legal gender and underwent sex reassignment surgery (SRS). A total of 25 individuals (7 natal females and 18 natal males), equaling 3.3 %, were denied a new legal gender and SRS. The remaining withdrew their application, were on a waiting list for surgery, or were granted partial treatment. The incidence of applications was calculated and stratified over four periods between 1972 and 2010. The incidence increased significantly from 0.16 to 0.42/100,000/year (FM) and from 0.23 to 0.73/100,000/year (MF). The most pronounced increase occurred after 2000. The proportion of FM individuals 30 years or older at the time of application remained stable around 30 %. In contrast, the proportion of MF individuals 30 years or older increased from 37 % in the first decade to 60 % in the latter three decades. The point prevalence at December 2010 for individuals who applied for a new legal gender was for FM 1:13,120 and for MF 1:7,750. The FM:MF sex ratio fluctuated but was 1:1.66 for the whole study period. There were 15 (5 MF and 10 MF) regret applications corresponding to a 2.2 % regret rate for both sexes. There was a significant decline of regrets over the time period.

Eldh, Berg, & Gustafsson, 1997

Long-term follow up after sex reassignment surgery

Eldh, J., Berg, A., Gustafsson, M. (1997). Long-term follow up after sex reassignment surgery. Scandinavian Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Hand Surgery , 27 (1), 39-45.

A long-term follow up of 136 patients operated on for sex reassignment was done to evaluate the surgical outcome. Social and psychological adjustments were also investigated by a questionnaire in 90 of these 136 patients. Optimal results of the operation are essential for a successful outcome. Personal and social instability before operation, unsuitable body build, and age over 30 years at operation correlated with unsatisfactory results. Adequate family and social support is important for postoperative functioning. Sex reassignment had no influence on the person’s ability to work.

Fisher et al., 2014

Cross-sex hormonal treatment and body uneasiness in individuals with gender dysphoria

Fisher, A. D., Castellini, G., Bandini, E., Casale, H., Fanni, E., et al. (2014). Cross‐sex hormonal treatment and body uneasiness in individuals with gender dysphoria. The Journal of Sexual Medicine , 11 (3), 709–719.

Introduction: Cross‐sex hormonal treatment (CHT) used for gender dysphoria (GD) could by itself affect well‐being without the use of genital surgery; however, to date, there is a paucity of studies investigating the effects of CHT alone. Aims: This study aimed to assess differences in body uneasiness and psychiatric symptoms between GD clients taking CHT and those not taking hormones (no CHT). A second aim was to assess whether length of CHT treatment and daily dose provided an explanation for levels of body uneasiness and psychiatric symptoms. Methods: A consecutive series of 125 subjects meeting the criteria for GD who not had genital reassignment surgery were considered. Main Outcome Measures: Subjects were asked to complete the Body Uneasiness Test (BUT) to explore different areas of body‐related psychopathology and the Symptom Checklist‐90 Revised (SCL‐90‐R) to measure psychological state. In addition, data on daily hormone dose and length of hormonal treatment (androgens, estrogens, and/or antiandrogens) were collected through an analysis of medical records. Results: Among the male‐to‐female (MtF) individuals, those using CHT reported less body uneasiness compared with individuals in the no‐CHT group. No significant differences were observed between CHT and no‐CHT groups in the female‐to‐male (FtM) sample. Also, no significant differences in SCL score were observed with regard to gender (MtF vs. FtM), hormone treatment (CHT vs. no‐CHT), or the interaction of these two variables. Moreover, a two‐step hierarchical regression showed that cumulative dose of estradiol (daily dose of estradiol times days of treatment) and cumulative dose of androgen blockers (daily dose of androgen blockers times days of treatment) predicted BUT score even after controlling for age, gender role, cosmetic surgery, and BMI. Conclusions: The differences observed between MtF and FtM individuals suggest that body‐related uneasiness associated with GD may be effectively diminished with the administration of CHT even without the use of genital surgery for MtF clients. A discussion is provided on the importance of controlling both length and daily dose of treatment for the most effective impact on body uneasiness.

Glynn et al., 2016

The role of gender affirmation in psychological well-being among transgender women

Glynn, T. R., Gamarel, K. E., Kahler, C. W., Iwamoto, M., Operario, D., & Nemoto, T. (2016). The role of gender affirmation in psychological well-being among transgender women. Psychology Of Sexual Orientation And Gender Diversity , 3 (3), 336-344.

High prevalence of psychological distress, including greater depression, lower self-esteem, and suicidal ideation, has been documented across numerous samples of transgender women and has been attributed to high rates of discrimination and violence. According to the gender affirmation framework (Sevelius, 2013), access to sources of gender-affirmative support can offset such negative psychological effects of social oppression. However, critical questions remain unanswered in regards to how and which aspects of gender affirmation are related to psychological well-being. The aims of this study were to investigate the associations among 3 discrete areas of gender affirmation (psychological, medical, and social) and participants’ reports of psychological well-being. A community sample of 573 transgender women with a history of sex work completed a 1-time self-report survey that assessed demographic characteristics, gender affirmation, and mental health outcomes. In multivariate models, we found that social, psychological, and medical gender affirmation were significant predictors of lower depression and higher self-esteem whereas no domains of affirmation were significantly associated with suicidal ideation. Findings support the need for accessible and affordable transitioning resources for transgender women to promote better quality of life among an already vulnerable population. However, transgender individuals should not be portrayed simplistically as objects of vulnerability, and research identifying mechanisms to promote wellness and thriving is necessary for future intervention development. As the gender affirmation framework posits, the personal experience of feeling affirmed as a transgender person results from individuals’ subjective perceptions of need along multiple dimensions of gender affirmation. Thus, personalized assessment of gender affirmation may be a useful component of counseling and service provision for transgender women.

Gomez-Gil et al., 2012

Hormone-treated transsexuals report less social distress, anxiety and depression

Gomez-Gil, E., Zubiaurre-Elorz, L., Esteva, I., Guillamon, A., Godas, T., Cruz Almaraz, M., Halperin, I., Salamero, M. (2012). Hormone-treated transsexuals report less social distress, anxiety and depression. Psychoneuroendocrinology , 37 (5), 662-670.

Introduction: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the presence of symptoms of current social distress, anxiety and depression in transsexuals. Methods: We investigated a group of 187 transsexual patients attending a gender identity unit; 120 had undergone hormonal sex-reassignment (SR) treatment and 67 had not. We used the Social Anxiety and Distress Scale (SADS) for assessing social anxiety and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) for evaluating current depression and anxiety. Results: The mean SADS and HADS scores were in the normal range except for the HAD-Anxiety subscale (HAD-A) on the non-treated transsexual group. SADS, HAD-A, and HAD-Depression (HAD-D) mean scores were significantly higher among patients who had not begun cross-sex hormonal treatment compared with patients in hormonal treatment (F = 4.362, p = .038; F = 14.589, p = .001; F = 9.523, p = .002 respectively). Similarly, current symptoms of anxiety and depression were present in a significantly higher percentage of untreated patients than in treated patients (61% vs. 33% and 31% vs. 8% respectively). Conclusions: The results suggest that most transsexual patients attending a gender identity unit reported subclinical levels of social distress, anxiety, and depression. Moreover, patients under cross-sex hormonal treatment displayed a lower prevalence of these symptoms than patients who had not initiated hormonal therapy. Although the findings do not conclusively demonstrate a direct positive effect of hormone treatment in transsexuals, initiating this treatment may be associated with better mental health of these patients.

Gomez-Gil et al., 2014

Determinants of quality of life in Spanish transsexuals attending a gender unit before genital sex reassignment surgery

Gómez-Gil, E., Zubiaurre-Elorza, L., de Antonio, E. D., Guillamon, A., & Salamero, M. (2014). Determinants of quality of life in Spanish transsexuals attending a gender unit before genital sex reassignment surgery. Quality of Life Research , 23 (2), 669-676.

Purpose: To evaluate the self-reported perceived quality of life (QoL) in transsexuals attending a Spanish gender identity unit before genital sex reassignment surgery, and to identify possible determinants that likely contribute to their QoL. Methods: A sample of 119 male-to-female (MF) and 74 female-to-male (FM) transsexuals were included in the study. The WHOQOL-BREF scale was used to evaluate self-reported QoL. Possible determinants included age, sex, education, employment, partnership status, undergoing cross-sex hormonal therapy, receiving at least one non-genital sex reassignment surgery, and family support (assessed with the family APGAR questionnaire). Results: Mean scores of all QoL domains ranged from 55.44 to 63.51. Linear regression analyses revealed that undergoing cross-sex hormonal treatment, having family support, and having an occupation were associated with a better QoL for all transsexuals. FM transsexuals have higher social domain QoL scores than MF transsexuals. The model accounts for 20.6 % of the variance in the physical, 32.5 % in the psychological, 21.9 % in the social, and 20.1 % in the environment domains, and 22.9 % in the global QoL factor. Conclusions: Cross-sex hormonal treatment, family support, and working or studying are linked to a better self-reported QoL in transsexuals. Healthcare providers should consider these factors when planning interventions to promote the health-related QoL of transsexuals.

Gorin-Lazard et al., 2012

Is hormonal therapy associated with better quality of life in transsexuals? A cross-sectional study

Gorin‐Lazard, A., Baumstarck, K., Boyer, L., Maquigneau, A., Gebleux, S., Penochet, J., Pringuey, D., Albarel, F., Morange, I., Loundou, A., Berbis, J., Auquier, P., Lançon, C. and Bonierbale, M. (2012). Is hormonal therapy associated with better quality of life in transsexuals? A cross‐sectional study. The Journal of Sexual Medicine , 9 (2), 531–541.

Introduction: Although the impact of sex reassignment surgery on the self‐reported outcomes of transsexuals has been largely described, the data available regarding the impact of hormone therapy on the daily lives of these individuals are scarce. Aims: The objectives of this study were to assess the relationship between hormonal therapy and the self‐reported quality of life (QoL) in transsexuals while taking into account the key confounding factors and to compare the QoL levels between transsexuals who have, vs. those who have not, undergone cross‐sex hormone therapy as well as between transsexuals and the general population (French age‐ and sex‐matched controls). Methods: This study incorporated a cross‐sectional design that was conducted in three psychiatric departments of public university teaching hospitals in France. The inclusion criteria were as follows: 18 years or older, diagnosis of gender identity disorder (302.85) according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, fourth edition text revision (DSM‐IV TR), inclusion in a standardized sex reassignment procedure following the agreement of a multidisciplinary team, and pre‐sex reassignment surgery. Main Outcome Measure. QoL was assessed using the Short Form 36 (SF‐36). Results: The mean age of the total sample was 34.7 years, and the sex ratio was 1:1. Forty‐four (72.1%) of the participants received hormonal therapy. Hormonal therapy and depression were independent predictive factors of the SF‐36 mental composite score. Hormonal therapy was significantly associated with a higher QoL, while depression was significantly associated with a lower QoL. Transsexuals’ QoL, independently of hormonal status, did not differ from the French age‐ and sex‐matched controls except for two subscales of the SF‐36 questionnaire: role physical (lower scores in transsexuals) and general health (lower scores in controls). Conclusion: The present study suggests a positive effect of hormone therapy on transsexuals’ QoL after accounting for confounding factors. These results will be useful for healthcare providers of transgender persons but should be confirmed with larger samples using a prospective study design.

Gorin-Lazard et al., 2013

 Hormonal therapy is associated with better self-esteem, mood, and quality of life in transsexuals

Gorin-Lazard, A., Baumstarck, K., Boyer, L., Maquigneau, A., Penochet, J. C., et al. (2013). Hormonal therapy is associated with better self-esteem, mood, and quality of life in transsexuals. Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease , 201 (11), 996–1000.

Few studies have assessed the role of cross-sex hormones on psychological outcomes during the period of hormonal therapy preceding sex reassignment surgery in transsexuals. The objective of this study was to assess the relationship between hormonal therapy, self-esteem, depression, quality of life (QoL), and global functioning. This study incorporated a cross-sectional design. The inclusion criteria were diagnosis of gender identity disorder (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision) and inclusion in a standardized sex reassignment procedure. The outcome measures were self-esteem (Social Self-Esteem Inventory), mood (Beck Depression Inventory), QoL (Subjective Quality of Life Analysis), and global functioning (Global Assessment of Functioning). Sixty-seven consecutive individuals agreed to participate. Seventy-three percent received hormonal therapy. Hormonal therapy was an independent factor in greater self-esteem, less severe depression symptoms, and greater “psychological-like” dimensions of QoL. These findings should provide pertinent information for health care providers who consider this period as a crucial part of the global sex reassignment procedure.

Hess et al., 2014

Satisfaction with male-to-female gender reassignment surgery

Hess, J., Neto, R. R., Panic, L., Rübben, H., & Senf, W. (2014). Satisfaction with male-to-female gender reassignment surgery: Results of a retrospective analysis. Deutsches Ärzteblatt International , 111 (47), 795–801.

Background: The frequency of gender identity disorder is hard to determine; the number of gender reassignment operations and of court proceedings in accordance with the German Law on Transsexuality almost certainly do not fully reflect the underlying reality. There have been only a few studies on patient satisfaction with male-to-female gender reassignment surgery. Methods: 254 consecutive patients who had undergone male-to-female gender reassignment surgery at Essen University Hospital’s Department of Urology retrospectively filled out a questionnaire about their subjective postoperative satisfaction. Results: 119 (46.9%) of the patients filled out and returned the questionnaires, at a mean of 5.05 years after surgery (standard deviation 1.61 years, range 1–7 years). 90.2% said their expectations for life as a woman were fulfilled postoperatively. 85.4% saw themselves as women. 61.2% were satisfied, and 26.2% very satisfied, with their outward appearance as a woman; 37.6% were satisfied, and 34.4% very satisfied, with the functional outcome. 65.7% said they were satisfied with their life as it is now. Conclusion: The very high rates of subjective satisfaction and the surgical outcomes indicate that gender reassignment surgery is beneficial. These findings must be interpreted with caution, however, because fewer than half of the questionnaires were returned.

Heylens et al., 2014

Effects of different steps in gender reassignment therapy on psychopathology: a prospective study of persons with a gender identity disorder

Heylens, G., Verroken, C., De Cock, S., T’Sjoen, G., & De Cuypere, G. (2014). Effects of different steps in gender reassignment therapy on psychopathology: a prospective study of persons with a gender identity disorder. The Journal of Sexual Medicine , 11 (1), 119–126.

Introduction: At the start of gender reassignment therapy, persons with a gender identity disorder (GID) may deal with various forms of psychopathology. Until now, a limited number of publications focus on the effect of the different phases of treatment on this comorbidity and other psychosocial factors. Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate how gender reassignment therapy affects psychopathology and other psychosocial factors. Methods: This is a prospective study that assessed 57 individuals with GID by using the Symptom Checklist‐90 (SCL‐90) at three different points of time: at presentation, after the start of hormonal treatment, and after sex reassignment surgery (SRS). Questionnaires on psychosocial variables were used to evaluate the evolution between the presentation and the postoperative period. The data were statistically analyzed by using SPSS 19.0, with significance levels set at P < 0.05. Main Outcome Measures: The psychopathological parameters include overall psychoneurotic distress, anxiety, agoraphobia, depression, somatization, paranoid ideation/psychoticism, interpersonal sensitivity, hostility, and sleeping problems. The psychosocial parameters consist of relationship, living situation, employment, sexual contacts, social contacts, substance abuse, and suicide attempt. Results: A difference in SCL‐90 overall psychoneurotic distress was observed at the different points of assessments (P = 0.003), with the most prominent decrease occurring after the initiation of hormone therapy (P < 0.001). Significant decreases were found in the subscales such as anxiety, depression, interpersonal sensitivity, and hostility. Furthermore, the SCL‐90 scores resembled those of a general population after hormone therapy was initiated. Analysis of the psychosocial variables showed no significant differences between pre‐ and postoperative assessments. Conclusions: A marked reduction in psychopathology occurs during the process of sex reassignment therapy, especially after the initiation of hormone therapy.

Imbimbo et al., 2009

A report from a single institute's 14-year experience in treatment of male-to-female transsexuals

Imbimbo, C., Verze, P., Palmieri, A., Longo, N., Fusco, F., Arcaniolo, D., & Mirone, V. (2009). A report from a single institute’s 14-year experience in treatment of male-to-female transsexuals. The Journal of Sexual Medicine , 6 (10), 2736–2745.

Introduction: Gender identity disorder or transsexualism is a complex clinical condition, and prevailing social context strongly impacts the form of its manifestations. Sex reassignment surgery (SRS) is the crucial step of a long and complex therapeutic process starting with preliminary psychiatric evaluation and culminating in definitive gender identity conversion. Aim: The aim of our study is to arrive at a clinical and psychosocial profile of male-to-female transsexuals in Italy through analysis of their personal and clinical experience and evaluation of their postsurgical satisfaction levels SRS. Methods: From January 1992 to September 2006, 163 male patients who had undergone gender-transforming surgery at our institution were requested to complete a patient satisfaction questionnaire. Main Outcome Measures: The questionnaire consisted of 38 questions covering nine main topics: general data, employment status, family status, personal relationships, social and cultural aspects, presurgical preparation, surgical procedure, and postsurgical sex life and overall satisfaction. Results: Average age was 31 years old. Seventy-two percent had a high educational level, and 63% were steadily employed. Half of the patients had contemplated suicide at some time in their lives before surgery and 4% had actually attempted suicide. Family and colleague emotional support levels were satisfactory. All patients had been adequately informed of surgical procedure beforehand. Eighty-nine percent engaged in postsurgical sexual activities. Seventy-five percent had a more satisfactory sex life after SRS, with main complications being pain during intercourse and lack of lubrication. Seventy-eight percent were satisfied with their neovagina’s esthetic appearance, whereas only 56% were satisfied with depth. Almost all of the patients were satisfied with their new sexual status and expressed no regrets. Conclusions: Our patients’ high level of satisfaction was due to a combination of a well-conducted preoperative preparation program, competent surgical skills, and consistent postoperative follow-up.

Johansson et al., 2010

A five-year follow-up study of Swedish adults with gender identity disorder

Johansson, A., Sundbom, E., Höjerback, T., & Bodlund, O. (2010). A five-year follow-up study of Swedish adults with gender identity disorder. Archives of Sexual Behavior , 39 (6), 1429-1437.

This follow-up study evaluated the outcome of sex reassignment as viewed by both clinicians and patients, with an additional focus on the outcome based on sex and subgroups. Of a total of 60 patients approved for sex reassignment, 42 (25 male-to-female [MF] and 17 female-to-male [FM]) transsexuals completed a follow-up assessment after 5 or more years in the process or 2 or more years after completed sex reassignment surgery. Twenty-six (62%) patients had an early onset and 16 (38%) patients had a late onset; 29 (69%) patients had a homosexual sexual orientation and 13 (31%) patients had a non-homosexual sexual orientation (relative to biological sex). At index and follow-up, a semi-structured interview was conducted. At follow-up, 32 patients had completed sex reassignment surgery, five were still in process, and five—following their own decision—had abstained from genital surgery. No one regretted their reassignment. The clinicians rated the global outcome as favorable in 62% of the cases, compared to 95% according to the patients themselves, with no differences between the subgroups. Based on the follow-up interview, more than 90% were stable or improved as regards work situation, partner relations, and sex life, but 5–15% were dissatisfied with the hormonal treatment, results of surgery, total sex reassignment procedure, or their present general health. Most outcome measures were rated positive and substantially equal for MF and FM. Late-onset transsexuals differed from those with early onset in some respects: these were mainly MF (88 vs. 42%), older when applying for sex reassignment (42 vs. 28 years), and non-homosexually oriented (56 vs. 15%). In conclusion, almost all patients were satisfied with the sex reassignment; 86% were assessed by clinicians at follow-up as stable or improved in global functioning.

Keo-Meier et al., 2015

Hormone-treated transsexuals report less social distress, anxiety and depression

Keo-Meier, C. L., Herman, L. I., Reisner, S. L., Pardo, S. T., Sharp, C., & Babcock, J. C. (2015). Testosterone treatment and MMPI-2 improvement in transgender men: A prospective controlled study. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 83 , 143-156.

Objective: Most transgender men desire to receive testosterone treatment in order to masculinize their bodies. In this study, we aimed to investigate the short-term effects of testosterone treatment on psychological functioning in transgender men. This is the 1st controlled prospective follow-up study to examine such effects. Method: We examined a sample of transgender men (n = 48) and nontransgender male (n = 53) and female (n = 62) matched controls (mean age = 26.6 years; 74% White). We asked participants to complete the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (2nd ed., or MMPI–2; Butcher, Graham, Tellegen, Dahlstrom, & Kaemmer, 2001) to assess psychological functioning at baseline and at the acute posttreatment follow-up (3 months after testosterone initiation). Regression models tested (a) Gender × Time interaction effects comparing divergent mean response profiles across measurements by gender identity; (b) changes in psychological functioning scores for acute postintervention measurements, adjusting for baseline measures, comparing transgender men with their matched nontransgender male and female controls and adjusting for baseline scores; and (c) changes in meeting clinical psychopathological thresholds. Results: Statistically significant changes in MMPI–2 scale scores were found at 3-month follow-up after initiating testosterone treatment relative to baseline for transgender men compared with female controls (female template): reductions in Hypochondria (p < .05), Depression (p < .05), Hysteria (p < .05), and Paranoia (p < .01); and increases in Masculinity–Femininity scores (p < .01). Gender × Time interaction effects were found for Hysteria (p < .05) and Paranoia (p < .01) relative to female controls (female template) and for Hypochondria (p < .05), Depression (p < .01), Hysteria (p < .01), Psychopathic Deviate (p < .05), Paranoia (p < .01), Psychasthenia (p < .01), and Schizophrenia (p < .01) compared with male controls (male template). In addition, the proportion of transgender men presenting with co-occurring psychopathology significantly decreased from baseline compared with 3-month follow-up relative to controls (p < .05). Conclusions: Findings suggest that testosterone treatment resulted in increased levels of psychological functioning on multiple domains in transgender men relative to nontransgender controls. These findings differed in comparisons of transgender men with female controls using the female template and with male controls using the male template. No iatrogenic effects of testosterone were found. These findings suggest a direct positive effect of 3 months of testosterone treatment on psychological functioning in transgender men.

Kraemer et al., 2008

Body image and transsexualism

Kraemer, B., Delsignore, A., Schnyder, U., & Hepp, U. (2008). Body image and transsexualism. Psychopathology , 41 (2), 96-100.

Background: To achieve a detailed view of the body image of transsexual patients, an assessment of perception, attitudes and experiences about one’s own body is necessary. To date, research on the body image of transsexual patients has mostly covered body dissatisfaction with respect to body perception. Sampling and Methods: We investigated 23 preoperative (16 male-to-female and 7 female-to-male transsexual patients) and 22 postoperative (14 male-to-female and 8 female-to-male) transsexual patients using a validated psychological measure for body image variables. Results: We found that preoperative transsexual patients were insecure and felt unattractive because of concerns about their body image. However, postoperative transsexual patients scored high on attractiveness and self-confidence. Furthermore, postoperative transsexual patients showed low scores for insecurity and concerns about their body. Conclusions: Our results indicate an improvement of body image concerns for transsexual patients following standards of care for gender identity disorder. Follow-up studies are recommended to confirm the assumed positive outcome of standards of care on body image.

Landen et al., 1998

Factors predictive of regret in sex reassignment

Landén, M., Wålinder, J., Hambert, G., & Lundström, B. (1998). Factors predictive of regret in sex reassignment. Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica , 97 (4), 284-289.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the features and calculate the frequency of sex-reassigned subjects who had applied for reversal to their biological sex, and to compare these with non-regretful subjects. An inception cohort was retrospectively identified consisting of all subjects with gender identity disorder who were approved for sex reassignment in Sweden during the period 1972-1992. The period of time that elapsed between the application and this evaluation ranged from 4 to 24 years. The total cohort consisted of 218 subjects. The results showed that 3.8% of the patients who were sex reassigned during 1972-1992 regretted the measures taken. The cohort was subdivided according to the presence or absence of regret of sex reassignment, and the two groups were compared. The results of logistic regression analysis indicated that two factors predicted regret of sex reassignment, namely lack of support from the patient’s family, and the patient belonging to the non-core group of transsexuals. In conclusion, the results show that the outcome of sex reassignment has improved over the years. However, the identified risk factors indicate the need for substantial efforts to support the families and close friends of candidates for sex reassignment.

Lawrence, 2003

Factors associated with satisfaction or regret following male-to-female sex reassignment surgery

Lawrence, A. A. (2003). Factors associated with satisfaction or regret following male-to-female sex reassignment surgery. Archives of Sexual Behavior , 32 (4), 299-315.

This study examined factors associated with satisfaction or regret following sex reassignment surgery (SRS) in 232 male-to-female transsexuals operated on between 1994 and 2000 by one surgeon using a consistent technique. Participants, all of whom were at least 1-year postoperative, completed a written questionnaire concerning their experiences and attitudes. Participants reported overwhelmingly that they were happy with their SRS results and that SRS had greatly improved the quality of their lives. None reported outright regret and only a few expressed even occasional regret. Dissatisfaction was most strongly associated with unsatisfactory physical and functional results of surgery. Most indicators of transsexual typology, such as age at surgery, previous marriage or parenthood, and sexual orientation, were not significantly associated with subjective outcomes. Compliance with minimum eligibility requirements for SRS specified by the Harry Benjamin International Gender Dysphoria Association was not associated with more favorable subjective outcomes. The physical results of SRS may be more important than preoperative factors such as transsexual typology or compliance with established treatment regimens in predicting postoperative satisfaction or regret.

Lawrence, 2006

Patient-reported complications and functional outcomes of male-to-female sex reassignment surgery

Lawrence, A. A. (2006). Patient-reported complications and functional outcomes of male-to-female sex reassignment surgery. Archives of Sexual Behavior , 35 (6), 717-727.

This study examined preoperative preparations, complications, and physical and functional outcomes of male-to-female sex reassignment surgery (SRS), based on reports by 232 patients, all of whom underwent penile-inversion vaginoplasty and sensate clitoroplasty, performed by one surgeon using a consistent technique. Nearly all patients discontinued hormone therapy before SRS and most reported that doing so created no difficulties. Preoperative electrolysis to remove genital hair, undergone by most patients, was not associated with less serious vaginal hair problems. No patients reported rectal-vaginal fistula or deep-vein thrombosis and reports of other significant surgical complications were uncommon. One third of patients, however, reported urinary stream problems. No single complication was significantly associated with regretting SRS. Satisfaction with most physical and functional outcomes of SRS was high; participants were least satisfied with vaginal lubrication, vaginal touch sensation, and vaginal erotic sensation. Frequency of achieving orgasm after SRS was not significantly associated with most general measures of satisfaction. Later years of surgery, reflecting greater surgeon experience, were not associated with lower prevalence rates for most complications or with better ratings for most physical and functional outcomes of SRS.

Lobato et al., 2006

Follow-up of sex reassignment surgery in transsexuals: a Brazilian cohort

Lobato M. I., Koff, W. J., Manenti, C., da Fonseca Seger, D., Salvador, J., et al. (2006). Follow-up of sex reassignment surgery in transsexuals: a Brazilian cohort.  Archives of Sexual Behavior, 35(6) , 711–715.

This study examined the impact of sex reassignment surgery on the satisfaction with sexual experience, partnerships, and relationship with family members in a cohort of Brazilian transsexual patients. A group of 19 patients who received sex reassignment between 2000 and 2004 (18 male- to-female, 1 female-to-male) after a two-year evaluation by a multidisciplinary team, and who agreed to participate in the study, completed a written questionnaire. Mean age at entry into the program was 31.21 ± 8.57 years and mean schooling was 9.2 ± 1.4 years. None of the patients reported regret for having undergone the surgery. Sexual experience was considered to have improved by 83.3% of the patients, and became more frequent for 64.7% of the patients. For 83.3% of the patients, sex was considered to be pleasurable with the neovagina/neopenis. In addition, 64.7% reported that initiating and maintaining a relationship had become easier. The number of patients with a partner increased from 52.6% to 73.7%. Family relationships improved in 26.3% of the cases, whereas 73.7% of the patients did not report a difference. None of the patients reported worse relationships

Manieri et al., 2014

Medical Treatment of Subjects with Gender Identity Disorder: The Experience in an Italian Public Health Center

Manieri, C., Castellano, E., Crespi, C., Di Bisceglie, C., Dell’Aquila, C., et al. (2014). Medical treatment of subjects with gender identity disorder: The experience in an Italian public health center. International Journal Of Transgenderism , 15 (2), 53-65.

Hormonal treatment is the main element during the transition program for transpeople. The aim of this paper is to describe the care and treatment of subjects, highlighting both the endocrine-metabolic effects of the hormonal therapy and the quality of life during the first year of cross-sex therapy in an Italian gender team. We studied 83 subjects (56 male-to-female [MtF], 27 female-to-male [FtM]) with hematological and hormonal evaluations every 3 months during the first year of hormonal therapy. MtF persons were treated with 17βestradiol and antiandrogens (cyproterone acetate, spironolactone, dutasteride); FtM persons were treated with transdermal or intramuscular testosterone. The WHO Quality of Life questionnaire was administered at the beginning and 1 year later. Hormonal changes paralleled phenotype modifications with wide variability. Most of both MtF and FtM subjects reported a statistically significant improvement in body image (p < 0.05). In particular, MtF subjects reported a statistically significant improvement in the quality of their sexual life and in the general quality of life (p < 0.05) 1 year after treatment initiation. Cross-sex therapy seems to be free of major risks in healthy subjects under clinical supervision during the first year. Selected subjects show an optimal adaptation to hormone-induced neuropsychological modifications and satisfaction regarding general and sexual life.

Megeri and Khoosal, 2007

Anxiety and depression in males experiencing gender dysphoria

Megeri, D., & Khoosal, D. (2007). Anxiety and depression in males experiencing gender dysphoria. Sexual & Relationship Therapy , 22 (1), 77-81.

Objective: The aim of the study was to compare anxiety and depression scores for the first 40 male to female people experiencing gender dysphoria attending the Leicester Gender Identity Clinic using the same sample as control pre and post gender realignment surgery. Hypothesis: There is an improvement in the scores of anxiety and depression following gender realignment surgery among people with gender dysphoria (male to female – transwomen). Results: There was no significant change in anxiety and depression scores in people with gender dysphoria (male to female) pre- and post-operatively.

Nelson, Whallett, & Mcgregor, 2009

Transgender patient satisfaction following reduction mammaplasty

Nelson, L., Whallett, E., & McGregor, J. (2009). Transgender patient satisfaction following reduction mammaplasty. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery , 62 (3), 331-334.

Aim: To evaluate the outcome of reduction mammaplasty in female-to-male transgender patients. Method: A 5-year retrospective review was conducted on all female-to-male transgender patients who underwent reduction mammaplasty. A postal questionnaire was devised to assess patient satisfaction, surgical outcome and psychological morbidity. Results: Seventeen patients were identified. The senior author performed bilateral reduction mammaplasties and free nipple grafts in 16 patients and one patient had a Benelli technique reduction. Complications included two haematomas, one wound infection, one wound dehiscence and three patients had hypertrophic scars. Secondary surgery was performed in seven patients and included scar revision, nipple reduction/realignment, dog-ear correction and nipple tattooing. The mean follow-up period after surgery was 10 months (range 2–23 months). Twelve postal questionnaires were completed (response rate 70%). All respondents expressed satisfaction with their result and no regret. Seven patients had nipple sensation and nine patients were satisfied with nipple position. All patients thought their scars were reasonable and felt that surgery had improved their self-confidence and social interactions. Conclusion: Reduction mammaplasty for female-to-male gender reassignment is associated with high patient satisfaction and a positive impact on the lives of these patients.

Newfield et al., 2006

Female-to-male transgender quality of life

Newfield, E., Hart, S., Dibble, S., & Kohler, L. (2006). Female-to-male transgender quality of life. Quality of Life Research , 15 (9), 1447-1457.

Objectives: We evaluated health-related quality of life in female-to-male (FTM) transgender individuals, using the Short-Form 36-Question Health Survey version 2 (SF-36v2). Methods: Using email, Internet bulletin boards, and postcards, we recruited individuals to an Internet site ( http://www.transurvey.org ), which contained a demographic survey and the SF36v2. We enrolled 446 FTM transgender and FTM transsexual participants, of which 384 were from the US. Results: Analysis of quality of life health concepts demonstrated statistically significant (p<0.0\) diminished quality of life among the FTM transgender participants as compared to the US male and female population, particularly in regard to mental health. FTM transgender participants who received testosterone (67%) reported statistically significant higher quality of life scores (/?<0.01) than those who had not received hormone therapy. Conclusions: FTM transgender participants reported significantly reduced mental health-related quality of life and

Padula, Heru, & Campbell, 2016

Societal Implications of Health Insurance Coverage for Medically Necessary Services in the U.S. Transgender Population: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

Padula, W. V., Heru, S. & Campbell, J. D. (2016). Societal implications of health insurance coverage for medically necessary services in the U.S. transgender population: A cost-effectiveness analysis. Journal of General Internal Medicine , 31 ( 4), 394-401.

Background: Recently, the Massachusetts Group Insurance Commission (GIC) prioritized research on the implications of a clause expressly prohibiting the denial of health insurance coverage for transgender-related services. These medically necessary services include primary and preventive care as well as transitional therapy. Objective: To analyze the cost-effectiveness of insurance coverage for medically necessary transgender-related services. Design: Markov model with 5- and 10-year time horizons from a U.S. societal perspective, discounted at 3 % (USD 2013). Data on outcomes were abstracted from the 2011 National Transgender Discrimination Survey (NTDS). Patients: U.S. transgender population starting before transitional therapy. Interventions: No health benefits compared to health insurance coverage for medically necessary services. This coverage can lead to hormone replacement therapy, sex reassignment surgery, or both. Main Measures: Cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) for successful transition or negative outcomes (e.g. HIV, depression, suicidality, drug abuse, mortality) dependent on insurance coverage or no health benefit at a willingness-to-pay threshold of $100,000/QALY. Budget impact interpreted as the U.S. per-member-per-month cost. Key Results: Compared to no health benefits for transgender patients ($23,619; 6.49 QALYs), insurance coverage for medically necessary services came at a greater cost and effectiveness ($31,816; 7.37 QALYs), with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $9314/QALY. The budget impact of this coverage is approximately $0.016 per member per month. Although the cost for transitions is $10,000–22,000 and the cost of provider coverage is $2175/year, these additional expenses hold good value for reducing the risk of negative endpoints —HIV, depression, suicidality, and drug abuse. Results were robust to uncertainty. The probabilistic sensitivity analysis showed that provider coverage was cost-effective in 85 % of simulations. Conclusions: Health insurance coverage for the U.S. transgender population is affordable and cost-effective, and has a low budget impact on U.S. society. Organizations such as the GIC should consider these results when examining policies regarding coverage exclusions.

Parola et al., 2010

Study of quality of life for transsexuals after hormonal and surgical reassignment

Parola, N., Bonierbale, M., Lemaire, A., Aghababian, V., Michel, A., & Lançon, C. (2010). Study of quality of life for transsexuals after hormonal and surgical reassignment. Sexologies , 19 (1), 24-28.

Aim: The main objective of this work is to provide a more detailed assessment of the impact of surgical reassignment on the most important aspects of daily life for these patients. Our secondary objective was to establish the influence of various factors likely to have an impact on the quality of life (QoL), such as biological gender and the subject’s personality. Methods: A personality study was conducted using Eysenck Personality Inventory (EPI) so as to analyze two aspects of the personality (extraversion and neuroticism). Thirty-eight subjects who had undergone hormonal surgical reassignment were included in the study. Results: The results show that gender reassignment surgery improves the QoL for transsexuals in several different important areas: most are satisfied of their sexual reassignment (28/30), their social (21/30) and sexual QoL (25/30) are improved. However, there are differences between male-to-female (MtF) and female-to-male (FtM) transsexuals in terms of QoL: FtM have a better social, professional, friendly lifestyles than MtF. Finally, the results of this study did not evidence any influence by certain aspects of the personality, such as extraversion and neuroticism, on the QoL for reassigned subjects.

Pfäfflin, 1993

Regrets After Sex Reassignment Surgery

Pfäfflin, F. (1993). Regrets after sex reassignment surgery. Journal of Psychology & Human Sexuality , 5 (4), 69-85.

Using data draw from the follow-up literature covering the last 30 years, and the author’s clinical data on 295 men and women after SRS, an estimation of the number of patients who regretted the operations is made. Among female-to-male transsexuals after SRS, i.e., in men, no regrets were reported in the author’s sample, and in the literature they amount to less than 1%. Among male-to- female transsexuals after SRS, i.e., in women, regrets are reported in 1-1.5%. Poor differential diagnosis, failure to carry out the real-life- test, and poor surgical results seem to be the main reasons behind the regrets reported in the literature. According to three cases observed by the author in addition to personality traits the lack of proper care in treating the patients played a major role.

Pimenoff and Pfäfflin, 2011

Transsexualism: Treatment Outcome of Compliant and Noncompliant Patients

Pimenoff, V., & Pfäfflin, F. (2011). Transsexualism: Treatment outcome of compliant and noncompliant patients. International Journal Of Transgenderism , 13 (1), 37-44.

The objective of the study was a follow-up of the treatment outcome of Finnish transsexuals who sought sex reassignment during the period 1970–2002 and a comparison of the results and duration of treatment of compliant and noncompliant patients. Fifteen male-to-female transsexuals and 17 female-to-male transsexuals who had undergone hormone and surgical treatment and legal sex reassignment in Finland completed a questionnaire on psychosocial data and on their experience with the different phases of clinical assessment and treatment. The changes in their vocational functioning and social and psychic adjustment were used as outcome indicators. The results and duration of the treatment of compliant and noncompliant patients were compared. The patients benefited significantly from treatment. The noncompliant patients achieved equally good results as the compliant ones, and did so in a shorter time. A good treatment outcome could be achieved even when the patient had told the assessing psychiatrist a falsified story of his life and sought hormone therapy, genital surgery, or legal sex reassignment on his own initiative without a recommendation from the psychiatrist. Based on these findings, it is recommended that the doctor-patient relationship be reconsidered and founded on frank cooperation.

Rakic et al., 1996

The outcome of sex reassignment surgery in Belgrade: 32 patients of both sexes

Rakic, Z., Starcevic, V., Maric, J., & Kelin, K. (1996). The outcome of sex reassignment surgery in Belgrade: 32 patients of both sexes. Archives of Sexual Behavior , 25 (5), 515-525.

Several aspects of the quality of life after sex reassignment surgery in 32 transsexuals of both sexes (22 men, 10 women) were examined. The Belgrade Team for Gender Identity Disorders designed a standardized questionnaire for this purpose. The follow-up period after operation was from 6 months to 4 years, and four aspects of the quality of life were examined: attitude towards the patients’ own body, relationships with other people, sexual activity, and occupational functioning. In most transsexuals, the quality of life was improved after surgery inasmuch as these four aspects are concerned. Only a few transsexuals were not satisfied with their life after surgery.

Rehman et al., 1999

The reported sex and surgery satisfactions of 28 postoperative male-to-female transsexual patients

Rehman, J., Lazer, S., Benet, A. E., Schaefer, L. C., & Melman, A. (1999). The reported sex and surgery satisfactions of 28 postoperative male-to-female transsexual patients. Archives of Sexual Behavior , 28 (1), 71-89.

From 1980 to July 1997 sixty-one male-to-female gender transformation surgeries were performed at our university center by one author (A.M.). Data were collected from patients who had surgery up to 1994 (n = 47) to obtain a minimum follow-up of 3 years; 28 patients were contacted. A mail questionnaire was supplemented by personal interviews with 11 patients and telephone interviews with remaining patients to obtain and clarify additional information. Physical and functional results of surgery were judged to be good, with few patients requiring additional corrective surgery. General satisfaction was expressed over the quality of cosmetic (normal appearing genitalia) and functional (ability to perceive orgasm) results. Follow-up showed satisfied who believed they had normal appearing genitalia and the ability to experience orgasm. Most patients were able to return to their jobs and live a more satisfactory social and personal life. One significant outcome was the importance of proper preparation of patients for surgery and especially the need for additional postoperative psychotherapy. None of the patients regretted having had surgery. However, some were, to a degree, disappointed because of difficulties experienced post operatively in adjusting satisfactorily as women both in their relationships with men and in living their lives generally as women. Findings of this study make a strong case for making a change in the Harry Benjamin Standards of Care to include a period of postoperative psychotherapy.

Rotondi et al., 2011

Prevalence of and risk and protective factors for depression in female-to-male transgender Ontarians

Rotondi, N. K., Bauer, G. R., Scanlon, K., Kaay, M., Travers, R., & Travers, A. (2011). Prevalence of and risk and protective factors for depression in female-to-male transgender Ontarians: Trans PULSE Project. Canadian Journal Of Community Mental Health , 30 (2), 135-155.

Although depression is understudied in transgender and transsexual communities, high prevalences have been reported. This paper presents original research from the Trans PULSE Project, an Ontario-wide, community-based initiative that surveyed 433 participants using respondent-driven sampling. The purpose of this analysis was to determine the prevalence of, and risk and protective factors for, depression among female-to-male (FTM) Ontarians (n = 207). We estimate that 66.4% of FTMs have symptomatology consistent with depression. In multivariable analyses, sexual satisfaction was a strong protective factor. Conversely, experiencing transphobia and being at the stage of planning but not having begun a medical transition (hormones and/or surgery) adversely affected mental health in FTMs.

Ruppin and Pfäfflin, 2015

Long-Term Follow-Up of Adults with Gender Identity Disorder

Ruppin, U., & Pfäfflin, F. (2015). Long-term follow-up of adults with gender identity disorder. Archives of Sexual Behavior , 44 (5), 1321-1329.

The aim of this study was to re-examine individuals with gender identity disorder after as long a period of time as possible. To meet the inclusion criterion, the legal recognition of participants’ gender change via a legal name change had to date back at least 10 years. The sample comprised 71 participants (35 MtF and 36 FtM). The follow-up period was 10–24 years with a mean of 13.8 years (SD = 2.78). Instruments included a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods: Clinical interviews were conducted with the participants, and they completed a follow-up questionnaire as well as several standardized questionnaires they had already filled in when they first made contact with the clinic. Positive and desired changes were determined by all of the instruments: Participants reported high degrees of well-being and a good social integration. Very few participants were unemployed, most of them had a steady relationship, and they were also satisfied with their relationships with family and friends. Their overall evaluation of the treatment process for sex reassignment and its effectiveness in reducing gender dysphoria was positive. Regarding the results of the standardized questionnaires, participants showed significantly fewer psychological problems and interpersonal difficulties as well as a strongly increased life satisfaction at follow-up than at the time of the initial consultation. Despite these positive results, the treatment of transsexualism is far from being perfect.

Smith et al., 2005

Follow-up study of transsexuals after sex-reassignment surgery

Smith, Y. L. S., Van Goozen, S. H. M., Kuiper, A. J., & Cohen-Kettenis, P. (2005). Sex reassignment: Outcomes and predictors of treatment for adolescent and adult transsexuals. Psychological Medicine, 35 (1), 89-99.

Background: We prospectively studied outcomes of sex reassignment, potential differences between subgroups of transsexuals, and predictors of treatment course and outcome. Method: Altogether 325 consecutive adolescent and adult applicants for sex reassignment participated: 222 started hormone treatment, 103 did not; 188 completed and 34 dropped out of treatment. Only data of the 162 adults were used to evaluate treatment. Results between subgroups were compared to determine post-operative differences. Adults and adolescents were included to study predictors of treatment course and outcome. Results were statistically analysed with logistic regression and multiple linear regression analyses. Results: After treatment the group was no longer gender dysphoric. The vast majority functioned quite well psychologically, socially and sexually. Two non-homosexual male-to-female transsexuals expressed regrets. Post-operatively, female-to-male and homosexual transsexuals functioned better in many respects than male-to-female and non-homosexual transsexuals. Eligibility for treatment was largely based upon gender dysphoria, psychological stability, and physical appearance. Male-to-female transsexuals with more psychopathology and cross-gender symptoms in childhood, yet less gender dysphoria at application, were more likely to drop out prematurely. Non-homosexual applicants with much psychopathology and body dissatisfaction reported the worst post-operative outcomes. Conclusions: The results substantiate previous conclusions that sex reassignment is effective. Still, clinicians need to be alert for non-homosexual male-to-females with unfavourable psychological functioning and physical appearance and inconsistent gender dysphoria reports, as these are risk factors for dropping out and poor post-operative results. If they are considered eligible, they may require additional therapeutic guidance during or even after treatment.

van de Grift et al., 2017

Effects of Medical Interventions on Gender Dysphoria and Body Image: a Follow-up Study

van de Grift, T. C., Elaut, E., Cerwenka, S. C., Cohen-Kettenis, P. T., Cuypere, G. D., Richter-Appelt, H., & Kreukels, B. P. (2017). Effects of medical interventions on gender dysphoria and body image. Psychosomatic Medicine , 79 (7), 815-823.

Objective: The aim of this study from the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence is to investigate the status of all individuals who had applied for gender confirming interventions from 2007 to 2009, irrespective of whether they received treatment. The current article describes the study protocol, the effect of medical treatment on gender dysphoria and body image, and the predictive value of (pre)treatment factors on posttreatment outcomes. Methods: Data were collected on medical interventions, transition status, gender dysphoria (Utrecht Gender Dysphoria Scale), and body image (Body Image Scale for transsexuals). In total, 201 people participated in the study (37% of the original cohort). Results: At follow-up, 29 participants (14%) did not receive medical interventions, 36 hormones only (18%), and 136 hormones and surgery (68%). Most transwomen had undergone genital surgery, and most transmen chest surgery. Overall, the levels of gender dysphoria and body dissatisfaction were significantly lower at follow-up compared with clinical entry. Satisfaction with therapy responsive and unresponsive body characteristics both improved. High dissatisfaction at admission and lower psychological functioning at follow-up were associated with persistent body dissatisfaction. Conclusions: Hormone-based interventions and surgery were followed by improvements in body satisfaction. The level of psychological symptoms and the degree of body satisfaction at baseline were significantly associated with body satisfaction at follow-up.

Surgical Satisfaction, Quality of Life and Their Association After Gender Affirming Surgery: A Follow-up Study

van de Grift, T. C., Elaut, E., Cerwenka, S. C., Cohen-Kettenis, P. T., & Kreukels, B. P. (2017). Surgical satisfaction, quality of life, and their association after gender-affirming surgery: A follow-up study. Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy , 44 (2), 138-148.

We assessed the outcomes of gender-affirming surgery (GAS, or sex-reassignment surgery) 4 to 6 years after first clinical contact, and the associations between postoperative (dis)satisfaction and quality of life (QoL). Our multicenter, cross-sectional follow-up study involved persons diagnosed with gender dysphoria (DSM-IV-TR) who applied for medical interventions from 2007 until 2009. Of 546 eligible persons, 201 (37%) responded, of whom 136 had undergone GAS (genital, chest, facial, vocal cord and/or thyroid cartilage surgery). Main outcome measures were procedure performed, self-reported complications, and satisfaction with surgical outcomes (standardized questionnaires), QoL (Satisfaction With Life Scale, Subjective Happiness Scale, Cantril Ladder), gender dysphoria (Utrecht Gender Dysphoria Scale), and psychological symptoms (Symptom Checklist-90). Postoperative satisfaction was 94% to 100%, depending on the type of surgery performed. Eight (6%) of the participants reported dissatisfaction and/or regret, which was associated with preoperative psychological symptoms or self-reported surgical complications (OR= 6.07). Satisfied respondents’ QoL scores were similar to reference values; dissatisfied or regretful respondents’ scores were lower. Therefore, dissatisfaction after GAS may be viewed as indicator of unfavorable psychological and QoL outcomes.

Vujovic et al., 2009

Transsexualism in Serbia: A Twenty-Year Follow-Up Study

Vujovic, S., Popovic, S., Sbutega-Milosevic, G., Djordjevic, M., & Gooren, L. (2009). Transsexualism in Serbia: A twenty-year follow-up study. The Journal of Sexual Medicine , 6 (4), 1018-1023.

Introduction: Gender dysphoria occurs in all societies and cultures. The prevailing social context has a strong impact on its manifestations as well as on applications by individuals with the condition for sex reassignment treatment. Aim: To describe a transsexual population seeking sex reassignment treatment in Serbia, part of former Yugoslavia. Methods: Data, collated over a period of 20 years, from subjects applying for sex reassignment to the only center in Serbia, were analyzed retrospectively. Main Outcome Measures: Age at the time of application, demographic data, family background, sex ratio, the prevalence of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) among female-to-male (FTM) transsexuals, and readiness to undergo surgical sex reassignment were tabulated. Results: Applicants for sex reassignment in Serbia are relatively young. The sex ratio is close to 1:1. They often come from single-child families. More than 10% do not wish to undergo surgical sex reassignment. The prevalence of PCOS among FTM transsexuals was higher than in the general population but considerably lower than that reported in the literature from other populations. Of those who had undergone sex reassignment, none expressed regret for their decision. Conclusions: Although transsexualism is a universal phenomenon, the relatively young age of those applying for sex reassignment and the sex ratio of 1:1 distinguish the population in Serbia from others reported in the literature.

Weigert et al., 2013

Patient satisfaction with breasts and psychosocial, sexual, and physical well-being after breast augmentation in male-to-female transsexuals

Weigert, R., Frison, E., Sessiecq, Q., Al Mutairi, K., & Casoli, V. (2013). Patient satisfaction with breasts and psychosocial, sexual, and physical well-being after breast augmentation in male-to-female transsexuals. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 132 (6), 1421-1429.

Background: Satisfaction with breasts, sexual well-being, psychosocial well-being, and physical well-being are essential outcome factors following breast augmentation surgery in male-to-female transsexual patients. The aim of this study was to measure change in patient satisfaction with breasts and sexual, physical, and psychosocial well-being after breast augmentation in male-to-female transsexual patients. Methods: All consecutive male-to-female transsexual patients who underwent breast augmentation between 2008 and 2012 were asked to complete the BREAST-Q Augmentation module questionnaire before surgery, at 4 months, and later after surgery. A prospective cohort study was designed and postoperative scores were compared with baseline scores. Satisfaction with breasts and sexual, physical, and psychosocial outcomes assessment was based on the BREAST-Q. Results: Thirty-five male-to-female transsexual patients completed the questionnaires. BREAST-Q subscale median scores (satisfaction with breasts, +59 points; sexual well-being, +34 points; and psychosocial well-being, +48 points) improved significantly (p < 0.05) at 4 months postoperatively and later. No significant change was observed in physical well-being. Conclusions: In this prospective, noncomparative, cohort study, the current results suggest that the gains in breast satisfaction, psychosocial well-being, and sexual well-being after male-to-female transsexual patients undergo breast augmentation are statistically significant and clinically meaningful to the patient at 4 months after surgery and in the long term.

Weyers et al., 2009

Long-term assessment of the physical, mental, and sexual health among transsexual women

Weyers, S., Elaut, E., De Sutter, P., Gerris, J., T’Sjoen, G., et al. (2009). Long-term assessment of the physical, mental, and sexual health among transsexual women. The Journal of Sexual Medicine , 6 (3), 752-760.

Introduction: Transsexualism is the most extreme form of gender identity disorder and most transsexuals eventually pursue sex reassignment surgery (SRS). In transsexual women, this comprises removal of the male reproductive organs, creation of a neovagina and clitoris, and often implantation of breast prostheses. Studies have shown good sexual satisfaction after transition. However, long-term follow-up data on physical, mental and sexual functioning are lacking. Aim: To gather information on physical, mental, and sexual well-being, health-promoting behavior and satisfaction with gender-related body features of transsexual women who had undergone SRS. Methods: Fifty transsexual women who had undergone SRS >or=6 months earlier were recruited. Main Outcome Measures: Self-reported physical and mental health using the Dutch version of the Short-Form-36 (SF-36) Health Survey; sexual functioning using the Dutch version of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Satisfaction with gender-related bodily features as well as with perceived female appearance; importance of sex, relationship quality, necessity and advisability of gynecological exams, as well as health concerns and feelings of regret concerning transition were scored. Results: Compared with reference populations, transsexual women scored good on physical and mental level (SF-36). Gender-related bodily features were shown to be of high value. Appreciation of their appearance as perceived by others, as well as their own satisfaction with their self-image as women obtained a good score (8 and 9, respectively). However, sexual functioning as assessed through FSFI was suboptimal when compared with biological women, especially the sublevels concerning arousal, lubrication, and pain. Superior scores concerning sexual function were obtained in those transsexual women who were in a relationship and in heterosexuals. Conclusions: Transsexual women function well on a physical, emotional, psychological and social level. With respect to sexuality, they suffer from specific difficulties, especially concerning arousal, lubrication, and pain.

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Below are 4 studies that contain mixed or null findings on the effect of gender transition on transgender well-being. Click here to jump to the 17 studies that consist of literature reviews or guidelines that help advance knowledge about the effect of gender transition on transgender well-being . Click here to jump to the 51 studies that found that gender transition improves the well-being of transgender people .

Barrett, 1998.

Psychological and social function before and after phalloplasty

Barrett J. (1998). Psychological and social function before and after phalloplasty. The International Journal of Transgenderism , 2 (1), 1-8.

There are no quantitative assessments of the benefits of phalloplasty in a female transsexual population. The study addresses this question, comparing transsexuals accepted for such surgery with transsexuals after such surgery has been performed. A population of 23 transsexuals accepted for phalloplasty was compared to a population of 40 who had undergone such surgery between six and one hundred and sixty months previously. The General Health Questionnaire (GHQ), Symptom Checklist 90 (SCL-90), Bem Sex Role Inventory and Social Role Performance Schedule (SRPS) were employed. Additionally, a questionnaire assessing satisfaction with cosmetic appearance, sexual function, relationship and urinary function was used, along with a semi-structured interview quantifying alcohol, cigarette and drug usage, and current sexual practice. There were significant differences between the populations. The post operative group showed higher depression ratings on the depression subscale of the GHQ. The masculine pre-operative Bem scores were neutral post-operatively as feminine sub-scores increased. There was improved satisfaction with genital appearance post-operatively, but satisfaction with relationships fell, although to a non-significant extent. Most other changes were in the expected direction but did not achieve significance. Transsexuals accepted for phalloplasty have very good psychological health. Tendency to further improvement is the case after phalloplasty. Depression is commoner, however, and quality of relationships declines somewhat, perhaps in consequence. Surgeons might advise partners as well as patients of realistic expectations from such surgery.

Lindqvist et al., 2017

Quality of life improves early after gender reassignment surgery in transgender women.

Lindqvist, E. K., Sigurjonsson, H., Möllermark, C., Rinder, J., Farnebo, F., et al. (2017). Quality of life improves early after gender reassignment surgery in transgender women. European Journal of Plastic Surgery , 40 (3), 223-226.

Background: Few studies have examined the long-term quality of life (QoL) of individuals with gender dysphoria, or how it is affected by treatment. Our aim was to examine the QoL of transgender women undergoing gender reassignment surgery (GRS). Methods: We performed a prospective cohort study on 190 patients undergoing male-to-female GRS at Karolinska University Hospital between 2003 and 2015. We used the Swedish version of the Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36), which measures QoL across eight domains. The questionnaire was distributed to patients pre-operatively, as well as 1, 3, and 5 years post-operatively. The results were compared between the different measure points, as well as between the study group and the general population. Results: On most dimensions of the SF-36 questionnaire, transgender women reported a lower QoL than the general population. The scores of SF-36 showed a non-significant trend to be lower 5 years post-GRS compared to pre-operatively, a decline consistent with that of the general population. Self-perceived health compared to 1 year previously rose in the first post-operative year, after which it declined. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the largest prospective study to follow a group of transgender patients with regards to QoL over continuous temporal measure points. Our results show that transgender women generally have a lower QoL compared to the general population. GRS leads to an improvement in general well-being as a trend but over the long-term, QoL decreases slightly in line with that of the comparison group. Level of evidence: Level III, therapeutic study.

Simonsen et al., 2016

Long-term follow-up of individuals undergoing sex reassignment surgery: Psychiatric morbidity and mortality

Simonsen, R. K., Giraldi, A., Kristensen, E., & Hald, G. M. (2016). Long-term follow-up of individuals undergoing sex reassignment surgery: Psychiatric morbidity and mortality. Nordic Journal Of Psychiatry , 70 (4), 241-247.

Background: There is a lack of long-term register-based follow-up studies of sex-reassigned individuals concerning mortality and psychiatric morbidity. Accordingly, the present study investigated both mortality and psychiatric morbidity using a sample of individuals with transsexualism which comprised 98% (n = 104) of all individuals in Denmark. Aims: (1) To investigate psychiatric morbidity before and after sex reassignment surgery (SRS) among Danish individuals who underwent SRS during the period of 1978–2010. (2) To investigate mortality among Danish individuals who underwent SRS during the period of 1978–2010.Method: Psychiatric morbidity and mortality were identified by data from the Danish Psychiatric Central Research Register and the Cause of Death Register through a retrospective register study of 104 sex-reassigned individuals. Results: Overall, 27.9% of the sample were registered with psychiatric morbidity before SRS and 22.1% after SRS (p = not significant). A total of 6.7% of the sample were registered with psychiatric morbidity both before and after SRS. Significantly more psychiatric diagnoses were found before SRS for those assigned as female at birth. Ten individuals were registered as deceased post-SRS with an average age of death of 53.5 years. Conclusions: No significant difference in psychiatric morbidity or mortality was found between male to female and female to male (FtM) save for the total number of psychiatric diagnoses where FtM held a significantly higher number of psychiatric diagnoses overall. Despite the over-representation of psychiatric diagnoses both pre- and post-SRS the study found that only a relatively limited number of individuals had received diagnoses both prior to and after SRS. This suggests that generally SRS may reduce psychological morbidity for some individuals while increasing it for others.

Udeze, 2008

Psychological functions in male-to-female transsexual people before and after surgery

Udeze, B., Abdelmawla, N., Khoosal, D., & Terry, T. (2008). Psychological functions in male-to-female transsexual people before and after surgery. Sexual & Relationship Therapy , 23 (2), 141-145.

Patients with gender dysphoria (GD) suffer from a constant feeling of psychological discomfort related to their anatomical sex. Gender reassignment surgery (GRS) attempts to release this discomfort. The aim of this study was to compare the functioning of a cohort or patients with GD before and after GRS. We hypothesized that there would be an improvement in the scores of the self-administered SCL-90R following gender reassignment surgery among male-to-female people with gender dysphoria. We studied 40 patients with a DSM-IV diagnosis of Gender Identity Disorder (GID) who attended Leicester Gender Identity Clinic. We compared their functioning as measured by Symptom Check List-90R (SCL-90R) which was administered to 40 randomly selected male-to-female patients before and within six months after GRS using the same sample as control pre-and post-surgery. There was no significant change in the different sub-scales of the SCL-90R scores in patients with male-to-female GID pre- and within six months post-surgery. The results of the study showed that GRS had no significant effect on functioning as measured by SCL-90R within six months of surgery. Our study has the advantage of reducing inter-subject variability by using the same patients as their own control. This study may be limited by the duration of reassessment post-surgery. Further studies with larger sample size and using other psychosocial scales are needed to elucidate on the effectiveness of surgical intervention on psychosocial parameters in patients with GD.

Below are 17 studies that consist of literature reviews or guidelines that help advance knowledge about the effect of gender transition on transgender well-being. Click here to jump to the 4 studies that contain mixed or null findings on the effect of gender transition on transgender well-being. Click here Click here to jump to the 51 studies that found that gender transition improves the well-being of transgender people .

American psychological, 2015.

Guidelines for psychological practice with transgender and gender nonconforming people

Guidelines for psychological practice with transgender and gender nonconforming people. (2015). American Psychologist, 70 (9), 832-864.

In 2015, the American Psychological Association adopted Guidelines for Psychological Practice with Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Clients in order to describe affirmative psychological practice with transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) clients. There are 16 guidelines in this document that guide TGNC-affirmative psychological practice across the lifespan, from TGNC children to older adults. The Guidelines are organized into five clusters: (a) foundational knowledge and awareness; (b) stigma, discrimination, and barriers to care; (c) lifespan development; (d) assessment, therapy, and intervention; and (e) research, education, and training. In addition, the guidelines provide attention to TGNC people across a range of gender and racial/ethnic identities. The psychological practice guidelines also attend to issues of research and how psychologists may address the many social inequities TGNC people experience.

Bockting et al., 2016

Adult development and quality of life of transgender and gender nonconforming people

Bockting, W., Coleman, E., Deutsch, M. B., Guillamon, A., Meyer, W., et al. (2016). Adult development and quality of life of transgender and gender nonconforming people. Current Opinion in Endocrinology & Diabetes and Obesity , 23 (2), 188–197.

Purpose of review: Research on the health of transgender and gender nonconforming people has been limited with most of the work focusing on transition-related care and HIV. The present review summarizes research to date on the overall development and quality of life of transgender and gender nonconforming adults, and makes recommendations for future research. Recent findings: Pervasive stigma and discrimination attached to gender nonconformity affect the health of transgender people across the lifespan, particularly when it comes to mental health and well-being. Despite the related challenges, transgender and gender nonconforming people may develop resilience over time. Social support and affirmation of gender identity play herein a critical role. Although there is a growing awareness of diversity in gender identity and expression among this population, a comprehensive understanding of biopsychosocial development beyond the gender binary and beyond transition is lacking. Summary: Greater visibility of transgender people in society has revealed the need to understand and promote their health and quality of life broadly, including but not limited to gender dysphoria and HIV. This means addressing their needs in context of their families and communities, sexual and reproductive health, and successful aging. Research is needed to better understand what factors are associated with resilience and how it can be effectively promoted.

Byne et al., 2012

Report of the American Psychiatric Association task force on treatment of gender identity disorder

Byne, W., Bradley, S.J., Coleman, E., et al. (2012). Report of the American Psychiatric Association task force on treatment of gender identity disorder. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 41 (4): 759–796.

Both the diagnosis and treatment of Gender Identity Disorder (GID) are controversial. Although linked, they are separate issues and the DSM does not evaluate treatments. The Board of Trustees (BOT) of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), therefore, formed a Task Force charged to perform a critical review of the literature on the treatment of GID at different ages, to assess the quality of evidence pertaining to treatment, and to prepare a report that included an opinion as to whether or not sufficient credible literature exists for development of treatment recommendations by the APA. The literature on treatment of gender dysphoria in individuals with disorders of sex development was also assessed. The completed report was accepted by the BOT on September 11, 2011. The quality of evidence pertaining to most aspects of treatment in all subgroups was determined to be low; however, areas of broad clinical consensus were identified and were deemed sufficient to support recommendations for treatment in all subgroups. With subjective improvement as the primary outcome measure, current evidence was judged sufficient to support recommendations for adults in the form of an evidence-based APA Practice Guideline with gaps in the empirical data supplemented by clinical consensus. The report recommends that the APA take steps beyond drafting treatment recommendations. These include issuing position statements to clarify the APA’s position regarding the medical necessity of treatments for GID, the ethical bounds of treatments of gender variant minors, and the rights of persons of any age who are gender variant, transgender or transsexual.

Carroll, 1999

Outcomes of Treatment for Gender Dysphoria

Carroll, R. A. (1999). Outcomes of treatment for gender dysphoria. Journal of Sex Education and Therapy , 24 (3), 128–136.

This paper reviews the empirical research on the psychosocial outcomes of treatment for gender dysphoria. Recent research has highlighted the heterogeneity of transgendered experiences. There are four possible outcomes for patients who present with the dilemma of gender dysphoria: an unresolved outcome, acceptance of one’s given gender, engaging in a cross-gender role on a part-time basis, and making a full-time transition to the other gender role. Clinical work, but not empirical research, suggests that some individuals with gender dysphoria may come to accept their given gender role through psychological treatment. Many individuals find that it is psychologically sufficient to express the transgendered part of themselves through such activities as cross-dressing or gender blending. The large body of research on the outcome of gender reassignment surgery indicates that, for the majority of those who undergo this process, the outcome is positive. Predictors of a good outcome include good pre-reassignment psychological adjustment, family support, at least 1 year of living in the desired role, consistent use of hormones, psychological treatment, and good surgical outcomes. The outcome literature provides strong support for adherence to the Standards of Care of the Harry Benjamin International Gender Dysphoria Association. Implications to be drawn from this research include an appreciation of the diversity of transgendered experience, the need for more research on non-reassignment resolutions to gender dysphoria, and the importance of assisting the transgendered individual to identify the resolution that best suits him or her.

Cohen-Kettenis and Gooren, 1999

Homophobic teasing, psychological outcomes, and sexual orientation among high school students: What influence do parents and schools have.

Cohen-Kettenis, P. T., & Gooren, L. J. G. (1999). Transsexualism: A review of etiology, diagnosis and treatment. Journal of Psychosomatic Research , 46 (4), 315-333.

Transsexualism is considered to be the extreme end of the spectrum of gender identity disorders characterized by, among other things, a pursuit of sex reassignment surgery (SRS). The origins of transsexualism are still largely unclear. A first indication of anatomic brain differences between transsexuals and nontranssexuals has been found. Also, certain parental (rearing) factors seem to be associated with transsexualism. Some contradictory findings regarding etiology, psychopathology and success of SRS seem to be related to the fact that certain subtypes of transsexuals follow different developmental routes. The observations that psychotherapy is not helpful in altering a crystallized cross-gender identity and that certain transsexuals do not show severe psychopathology has led clinicians to adopt sex reassignment as a treatment option. In many countries, transsexuals are now treated according to the Standards of Care of the Harry Benjamin International Gender Dysphoria Association, a professional organization in the field of transsexualism. Research on postoperative functioning of transsexuals does not allow for unequivocal conclusions, but there is little doubt that sex reassignment substantially alleviates the suffering of transsexuals. However, SRS is no panacea. Psychotherapy may be needed to help transsexuals in adapting to the new situation or in dealing with issues that could not be addressed before treatment.

Coleman et al., 2012

Standards of Care for the Health of Transsexual, Transgender, and Gender-Nonconforming People, Version 7

Coleman, E., Bockting, W., Botzer, M., Cohen-Kettenis, P., DeCuypere, G., et al. (2012). Standards of care for the health of transsexual, transgender, and gender-nonconforming people, version 7. International Journal of Transgenderism , 13 (4), 165-232.

The Standards of Care (SOC) for the Health of Transsexual, Transgender, and Gender Nonconforming People is a publication of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH). The overall goal of the SOC is to provide clinical guidance for health professionals to assist transsexual, transgender, and gender nonconforming people with safe and effective pathways to achieving lasting personal comfort with their gendered selves, in order to maximize their overall health, psychological well-being, and self-fulfillment. This assistance may include primary care, gynecologic and urologic care, reproductive options, voice and communication therapy, mental health services (e.g., assessment, counseling, psychotherapy), and hormonal and surgical treatments. The SOC are based on the best available science and expert professional consensus. Because most of the research and experience in this field comes from a North American and Western European perspective, adaptations of the SOC to other parts of the world are necessary. The SOC articulate standards of care while acknowledging the role of making informed choices and the value of harm reduction approaches. In addition, this version of the SOC recognizes that treatment for gender dysphoria i.e., discomfort or distress that is caused by a discrepancy between persons gender identity and that persons sex assigned at birth (and the associated gender role and/or primary and secondary sex characteristics) has become more individualized. Some individuals who present for care will have made significant self-directed progress towards gender role changes or other resolutions regarding their gender identity or gender dysphoria. Other individuals will require more intensive services. Health professionals can use the SOC to help patients consider the full range of health services open to them, in accordance with their clinical needs and goals for gender expression.

Committee on Health Care for Underserved, 2011

Committee Opinion no. 512: health care for transgender individuals

Committee Opinion No. 512: Health Care for Transgender Individuals. (2011). Obstetrics & Gynecology , 118 (6), 1454–1458.

Transgender individuals face harassment, discrimination, and rejection within our society. Lack of awareness, knowledge, and sensitivity in health care communities eventually leads to inadequate access to, underutilization of, and disparities within the health care system for this population. Although the care for these patients is often managed by a specialty team, obstetrician–gynecologists should be prepared to assist or refer transgender individuals with routine treatment and screening as well as hormonal and surgical therapies. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists opposes discrimination on the basis of gender identity and urges public and private health insurance plans to cover the treatment of gender identity disorder.

Costa and Colizzi, 2016

 The effect of cross-sex hormonal treatment on gender dysphoria individuals' mental health: a systematic review

Costa, R., & Colizzi, M. (2016). The effect of cross-sex hormonal treatment on gender dysphoria individuals’ mental health: A systematic review. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment , 12 , 1953-1966.

Cross-sex hormonal treatment represents a main aspect of gender dysphoria health care pathway. However, it is still debated whether this intervention translates into a better mental well-being for the individual and which mechanisms may underlie this association. Although sex reassignment surgery has been the subject of extensive investigation, few studies have specifically focused on hormonal treatment in recent years. Here, we systematically review all studies examining the effect of cross-sex hormonal treatment on mental health and well-being in gender dysphoria. Research tends to support the evidence that hormone therapy reduces symptoms of anxiety and dissociation, lowering perceived and social distress and improving quality of life and self-esteem in both male-to-female and female-to-male individuals. Instead, compared to female-to-male individuals, hormone-treated male-to-female individuals seem to benefit more in terms of a reduction in their body uneasiness and personality-related psychopathology and an amelioration of their emotional functioning. Less consistent findings support an association between hormonal treatment and other mental health-related dimensions. In particular, depression, global psychopathology, and psychosocial functioning difficulties appear to reduce only in some studies, while others do not suggest any improvement in these domains. Results from longitudinal studies support more consistently the association between hormonal treatment and improved mental health. On the contrary, a number of cross-sectional studies do not support this evidence. This review provides possible biological explanation vs psychological explanation (direct effect vs indirect effect) for the hormonal treatment-induced better mental well-being. In conclusion, this review indicates that gender dysphoria-related mental distress may benefit from hormonal treatment intervention, suggesting a transient reaction to the nonsatisfaction connected to the incongruent body image rather than a stable psychiatric comorbidity. In this perspective, timely hormonal treatment intervention represents a crucial issue in gender dysphoria individuals’ mental health-related outcome.

Dhejne et al., 2016

Mental health and gender dysphoria: A review of the literature

Dhejne, C., Van Vlerken, R., Heylens, G., & Arcelus, J. (2016). Mental health and gender dysphoria: A review of the literature. International Review Of Psychiatry , 28 (1), 44-57.

Studies investigating the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among trans individuals have identified elevated rates of psychopathology. Research has also provided conflicting psychiatric outcomes following gender-confirming medical interventions. This review identifies 38 cross-sectional and longitudinal studies describing prevalence rates of psychiatric disorders and psychiatric outcomes, pre- and post-gender-confirming medical interventions, for people with gender dysphoria. It indicates that, although the levels of psychopathology and psychiatric disorders in trans people attending services at the time of assessment are higher than in the cis population, they do improve following gender-confirming medical intervention, in many cases reaching normative values. The main Axis I psychiatric disorders were found to be depression and anxiety disorder. Other major psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, were rare and were no more prevalent than in the general population. There was conflicting evidence regarding gender differences: some studies found higher psychopathology in trans women, while others found no differences between gender groups. Although many studies were methodologically weak, and included people at different stages of transition within the same cohort of patients, overall this review indicates that trans people attending transgender health-care services appear to have a higher risk of psychiatric morbidity (that improves following treatment), and thus confirms the vulnerability of this population.

Gijs and Brewaeys, 2007

Surgical Treatment of Gender Dysphoria in Adults and Adolescents: Recent Developments, Effectiveness, and Challenges

Gijs, L., & Brewaeys, A. (2007). Surgical treatment of gender dysphoria in adults and adolescents: Recent developments, effectiveness, and challenges. Annual Review of Sex Research , 18 (1), 178-224.

In 1990 Green and Fleming concluded that sex reassignment surgery (SRS) is an effective treatment for transsexuality because it reduced gender dysphoria drastically. Since 1990, many new outcome studies have been published, raising the question as to whether the conclusion of Green and Fleming still holds. After describing terminological and conceptual developments related to the treatment of gender identity disorder (GID), follow-up studies, including both adults and adolescents, of the outcomes of SRS are reviewed. Special attention is paid to the effects of SRS on gender dysphoria, sexuality, and regret. Despite methodological shortcomings of many of the studies, we conclude that SRS is an effective treatment for transsexualism and the only treatment that has been evaluated empirically with large clinical case series.

Gooren, 2011

Clinical practice. Care of transsexual persons

Gooren, L. J. (2011). Care of transsexual persons. New England Journal of Medicine , 364 (13), 1251–1257.

This Journal feature begins with a case vignette highlighting a common clinical problem. Evidence supporting various strategies is then presented, followed by a review of formal guidelines, when they exist. The article ends with the author’s clinical recommendations. A healthy and successful 40-year-old man finds it increasingly difficult to live as a male. In childhood he preferred playing with girls and recalls feeling that he should have been one. Over time he has come to regard himself more and more as a female personality inhabiting a male body. After much agonizing, he has concluded that only sex reassignment can offer the peace of mind he craves. What would you advise? A healthy and successful 40-year-old man finds it increasingly difficult to live as a male. In childhood he preferred playing with girls and recalls feeling that he should have been one. Over time he has come to regard himself more and more as a female personality inhabiting a male body. After much agonizing, he has concluded that only sex reassignment can offer the peace of mind he craves. What would you advise?

Hembree et al., 2009

Endocrine treatment of transsexual persons: an Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline

Hembree, W. C., Cohen-Kettenis, P., Delemarre-van de Waal, H. A., Gooren, L. J., Meyer, W., et al. (2009). Endocrine treatment of transsexual persons: An endocrine society clinical practice guideline. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 94 (9), 3132–3154.

Objective: The aim was to formulate practice guidelines for endocrine treatment of transsexual persons. Evidence: This evidence-based guideline was developed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system to describe the strength of recommendations and the quality of evidence, which was low or very low. Consensus Process: Committees and members of The Endocrine Society, European Society of Endocrinology, European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology, Lawson Wilkins Pediatric Endocrine Society, and World Professional Association for Transgender Health commented on preliminary drafts of these guidelines. Conclusions: Transsexual persons seeking to develop the physical characteristics of the desired gender require a safe, effective hormone regimen that will 1) suppress endogenous hormone secretion determined by the person’s genetic/biologic sex and 2) maintain sex hormone levels within the normal range for the person’s desired gender. A mental health professional (MHP) must recommend endocrine treatment and participate in ongoing care throughout the endocrine transition and decision for surgical sex reassignment. The endocrinologist must confirm the diagnostic criteria the MHP used to make these recommendations. Because a diagnosis of transsexualism in a prepubertal child cannot be made with certainty, we do not recommend endocrine treatment of prepubertal children. We recommend treating transsexual adolescents (Tanner stage 2) by suppressing puberty with GnRH analogues until age 16 years old, after which cross-sex hormones may be given. We suggest suppressing endogenous sex hormones, maintaining physiologic levels of gender-appropriate sex hormones and monitoring for known risks in adult transsexual persons. Endocrine treatment of transsexual persons should include suppression of endogenous sex hormones, physiologic levels of gender-appropriate sex hormones, and suppression of puberty in adolescents (Tanner stage 2).

Michel et al., 2002

The transsexual: what about the future?

Michel, A., Ansseau, M., Legros, J., Pitchot, W., & Mormont, C. (2002). The transsexual: What about the future? European Psychiatry , 17 (6), 353-362.

Since the 1950s, sexual surgical reassignments have been frequently carried out. As this surgical therapeutic procedure is controversial, it seems important to explore the actual consequences of such an intervention and objectively evaluate its relevance. In this context, we have carried out a review of the literature. After looking at the methodological limitations of follow-up studies, the psychological, sexual, social, and professional futures of the individuals subject to a transsexual operation are presented. Finally, prognostic aspects are considered. In the literature, follow-up studies tend to show that surgical transformations have positive consequences for the subjects. In the majority of cases, transsexuals are very satisfied with their intervention and any difficulties experienced are often temporary and disappear within a year after the surgical transformation. Studies show that there is less than 1% of regrets, and a little more than 1% of suicides among operated subjects. The empirical research does not confirm the opinion that suicide is strongly associated with surgical transformation.

Murad et al., 2010

Hormonal therapy and sex reassignment: a systematic review and meta-analysis of quality of life and psychosocial outcomes

Murad, M. H., Elamin, M. B., Garcia, M. Z., Mullan, R. J., Murad, A., Erwin, P. J., & Montori, V. M. (2010). Hormonal therapy and sex reassignment: A systematic review and meta-analysis of quality of life and psychosocial outcomes. Clinical Endocrinology , 72 (2), 214-231.

Objective: To assess the prognosis of individuals with gender identity disorder (GID) receiving hormonal therapy as a part of sex reassignment in terms of quality of life and other self‐reported psychosocial outcomes. Methods: We searched electronic databases, bibliography of included studies and expert files. All study designs were included with no language restrictions. Reviewers working independently and in pairs selected studies using predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, extracted outcome and quality data. We used a random‐effects meta‐analysis to pool proportions and estimate the 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We estimated the proportion of between‐study heterogeneity not attributable to chance using the I2 statistic. Results: We identified 28 eligible studies. These studies enrolled 1833 participants with GID (1093 male‐to‐female, 801 female‐to‐male) who underwent sex reassignment that included hormonal therapies. All the studies were observational and most lacked controls. Pooling across studies shows that after sex reassignment, 80% of individuals with GID reported significant improvement in gender dysphoria (95% CI = 68–89%; 8 studies; I2 = 82%); 78% reported significant improvement in psychological symptoms (95% CI = 56–94%; 7 studies; I2 = 86%); 80% reported significant improvement in quality of life (95% CI = 72–88%; 16 studies; I2 = 78%); and 72% reported significant improvement in sexual function (95% CI = 60–81%; 15 studies; I2 = 78%). Conclusions: Very low quality evidence suggests that sex reassignment that includes hormonal interventions in individuals with GID likely improves gender dysphoria, psychological functioning and comorbidities, sexual function and overall quality of life.

Reisner et al., 2016

Global health burden and needs of transgender populations: a review

Reisner, S. L., Poteat, T., Keatley, J., Cabral, M., Mothopeng, T., et al. (2016). Global health burden and needs of transgender populations: A review. The Lancet , 388 (10042), 412-436.

Transgender people are a diverse population affected by a range of negative health indicators across high-income, middle-income, and low-income settings. Studies consistently document a high prevalence of adverse health outcomes in this population, including HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, mental health distress, and substance use and abuse. However, many other health areas remain understudied, population-based representative samples and longitudinal studies are few, and routine surveillance efforts for transgender population health are scarce. The absence of survey items with which to identify transgender respondents in general surveys often restricts the availability of data with which to estimate the magnitude of health inequities and characterise the population-level health of transgender people globally. Despite the limitations, there are sufficient data highlighting the unique biological, behavioural, social, and structural contextual factors surrounding health risks and resiliencies for transgender people. To mitigate these risks and foster resilience, a comprehensive approach is needed that includes gender affirmation as a public health framework, improved health systems and access to health care informed by high quality data, and effective partnerships with local transgender communities to ensure responsiveness of and cultural specificity in programming. Consideration of transgender health underscores the need to explicitly consider sex and gender pathways in epidemiological research and public health surveillance more broadly.

Schmidt and Levine, 2015

Psychological Outcomes and Reproductive Issues Among Gender Dysphoric Individuals

Schmidt, L., & Levine, R. (2015). Psychological Outcomes and Reproductive Issues Among Gender Dysphoric Individuals. Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics of North America , 44 (4), 773-785.

Gender dysphoria is a condition in which a person experiences discrepancy between the natal anatomic sex and the gender he or she identifies with, resulting in internal distress and a desire to live as the preferred gender. There is increasing demand for treatment, which includes suppression of puberty, cross-sex hormone therapy, and sex reassignment surgery. This article reviews longitudinal outcome data evaluating psychological well-being and quality of life among transgender individuals who have undergone cross-sex hormone treatment or sex reassignment surgery. Proposed methodologies for diagnosis and initiation of treatment are discussed, and the effects of cross-sex hormones and sex reassignment surgery on future reproductive potential.

White Hughto and Reisner, 2016

A Systematic Review of the Effects of Hormone Therapy on Psychological Functioning and Quality of Life in Transgender Individuals

White Hughto, J. M., & Reisner, S. L. (2016). A systematic review of the effects of hormone therapy on psychological functioning and quality of life in transgender individuals. Transgender Health , 1 (1), 21–31.

Objectives: To review evidence from prospective cohort studies of the relationship between hormone therapy and changes in psychological functioning and quality of life in transgender individuals accessing hormone therapy over time. Data Sources: MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and PubMed were searched for relevant studies from inception to November 2014. Reference lists of included studies were hand searched. Results: Three uncontrolled prospective cohort studies, enrolling 247 transgender adults (180 male-to-female [MTF], 67 female-to-male [FTM]) initiating hormone therapy for the treatment of gender identity disorder (prior diagnostic term for gender dysphoria), were identified. The studies measured exposure to hormone therapy and subsequent changes in mental health (e.g., depression, anxiety) and quality of life outcomes at follow-up. Two studies showed a significant improvement in psychological functioning at 3–6 months and 12 months compared with baseline after initiating hormone therapy. The third study showed improvements in quality of life outcomes 12 months after initiating hormone therapy for FTM and MTF participants; however, only MTF participants showed a statistically significant increase in general quality of life after initiating hormone therapy. Conclusions: Hormone therapy interventions to improve the mental health and quality of life in transgender people with gender dysphoria have not been evaluated in controlled trials. Low quality evidence suggests that hormone therapy may lead to improvements in psychological functioning. Prospective controlled trials are needed to investigate the effects of hormone therapy on the mental health of transgender people.

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Sexual orientation is an often enduring pattern of emotional, romantic, and/or sexual attractions to men, women, or both. It also refers to an individual’s sense of personal and social identity based on those attractions, related behaviors, and membership in a community of others who share those attractions and behaviors.

Transgender is an umbrella term for people whose gender identity or gender expression does not conform to that typically associated with the sex to which they were assigned at birth. Some who do not identify as either male or female prefer the term “gender nonbinary” or “genderqueer.”

Sexual orientation and gender identity are not the same thing—they are distinct aspects of being a person. Children have a sense of their gender from about ages 3–5, and people develop a sexual orientation as they mature.

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285 LGBT Essay Topics & Examples

Whenever you need original LGBTQ essay topics, check this list! Our experts have collected good samples for you to consider and title ideas to choose from.

🏆 Best LGBT Essay Examples & Topics

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  • The Idea of Gay Parenting First of all, there have not been any studies done and proved that children of gay or lesbian parents are disadvantaged in any significant respect relative to children of heterosexual parents.
  • Being Gay in Canada: Faced Problems and Difficulties It has encouraged immigration of Canada from all corners of the world and the homosexuals are making plans to move to this part of the globe to secure their rights and enjoy their life in […]
  • Homosexual Stereotypes in Film and TV Homosexuals are feeling more comfortable and open with their sexuality mainly due to the rise of new shows on American television that feature gay individuals and this exposure has resulted in a deep awareness of […]
  • Gay Culture’s Influence on Hip Hop Fashion Gay men have the influence of female fashion design due to the fact that most of the designers of female clothes are men and most of them are homosexual.
  • Feminism: Liberal, Black, Radical, and Lesbian 2 In the 1960s and the 1970s, liberal feminism focused on working women’s issues and the impact of experiences that females of any race could have.
  • Durable Inequalities in Relation to the LGBT Community in the United States The purpose of this paper is to discuss the phenomenon of durable inequalities with reference to the LGBT community in the US society to understand how four aspects of this concept are reflected in LGBT […]
  • Ethical Issues of the Transgender Rights One of the most significant burdens transgender people experience is the recognition of their identity. Therefore, to increase the chances for transgender adults’ health care, it is important to pay thorough attention to any signs […]
  • Growing Up Transgender: Malisa’s Story on NBC News It is essential to develop a better understanding of the concept of gender in relation to children and their development to ensure the protection of the interests of all people and, thus, improve their lives.
  • Gay Marriage: Societal Suicide While Colson and Morse cannot neglect the need to oppose gay marriage because it destroys human society, the tone, references to the law, and the language chosen for the article help the reader understand the […]
  • Transgender Bathroom Rights and Legal Reforms One of the themes that deserve discussion is the possibility of creating transgender baths and the rights that can be given to this category of the population.
  • Health Care for Transgender Individuals However, the medicalization of transsexualism made it more difficult to receive the treatment as individuals have to prove that they have such problems, and it is not just a temperate state of their mind that […]
  • Racism in Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Transgenders Instead of supporting one another as members of a minority group, these people arrange internal arguments within the society of LGBT that leads to the increased feeling of depression and psychological pressure on behalf of […]
  • Indians in the 19th Century vs. Gay’s Struggle Today The plight of American Indians in 19thcentury The present plight of the gay struggle for acceptance Legislations The Dewes Severalty Act of 1887 was passed on February 8th, 1887, with an intention to allot lands to individuals (Nichols 125). It was perceived that by allocating lands to Native Americans, the government would not have to […]
  • Open Homosexuals’ Effects on Military Morale Britton and Williams start by noting that when President Clinton announced his intention to lift the ban that restricted homosexuals from participating in the military service, a debate emerged in which the performance of lesbians […]
  • Homosexual Religious and Legal Rights Another recommendation is that the legal structures that govern the issue of homosexuality should be coherent and considerate. Conclusively, it is evident that legal and religious provisions differ remarkably on their stands regarding the matters […]
  • Sociological Imagination of Homosexuality This is due to the commonality of problems that we may have as members of a given society. I did not know whether the signs I was exhibiting were that of a homosexual or it […]
  • “An Asian Lesbian’s Struggle” by C. Allyson Lee In the end, the author confesses that she has finally come to terms with herself, and she is proud of being an Asian lesbian.
  • Gender Issues and Sexuality: Social Perspective and Distinction It is rather interesting to note that society today has such a well-established preconception regarding genders that when presented with alternatives to such established norms the result has been subject to confusion, disdain, at times […]
  • Children in Gay and Lesbian Couples These techniques of getting children not only provide gay and lesbian couples with an ethical method to have children, but they also provide them with a chance to raise children for the donors.
  • Homosexuals and Their Personal Culture Unique culture generally refers to a set of beliefs, values, or generally the way of life of an individual irrespective of the way of life of people in the larger society.
  • Gay and Lesbian Adoption Issues The end of the 20th and the beginning of the 21st century are prominent in the evolution and empowerment of the LGBTQ movement.
  • Cancer Screening in Lesbians, Gays, Transgenders Moreover, one of the diseases that are the burden of American society as a whole and the LGBT population, in particular, is cancer.
  • Homosexuality in “Laura” and “Brokeback Mountain” 1 It may seem that the representation of Waldo embodies the features of sexual perversion and decadence, as expressed by the sexual intercourse of the young men with the older man along with the unusual […]
  • Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender at Life Stages In general, all people are claimed to be equal in the USA, however, there is a high possibility to lose a job or fail to be applied to it if one is a representative of […]
  • Transgender Bathroom Rights and Needed Policy In both articles, the subject of the study is the right of transgenders to access bathrooms according to the preferences of these people.
  • Women in Sports: Policy for Transgender Players Drawing from this elucidation, the proposed policy statement on transgender participation in mixed leagues will not require transgender athletes to prove their gender identity through the testimony of professional experts and psychologists; on the contrary, […]
  • Gay Marriage and Its Social Acceptance in the US It is due to this greater level of social acceptance as well as government support of gay marriage that Clinton changed his position in 2013 regarding his support of the Defense of Marriage Act by […]
  • LGBT Literature: “The Picture of Dorian Gray” The chosen book is Oscar Wilde’s 1891 classic: The Picture of Dorian Gray; a story carefully fashioned to affirm the tilt youths have toward beauty, and the extent most could go to retain that unique […]
  • Transgender People in the USA The statistics are impressive and, no matter how unpleasant it is to some of us, we have to face the reality that quite a large number of people in our society can be classified as […]
  • Transgender Inclusivity in Higher Education The individuals and organizations opposing trans inclusion in higher education stress that one of the main purposes of all-female colleges is to ensure the safety of the female students.
  • Homosexuality in Natural Law Theory The aim of this paper is to explore the concept of homosexuality from a philosophical context. According to the conventional natural-law argument on homosexuality, homosexuality involves a misuse of one’s sexual organs.
  • Amy Zimmerman: It Ain’t Easy Being Bisexual on TV Some experts also point out the importance of the good evidence that is related to the core thesis of the paper and supports the ideas’ persuasiveness; this criterion was, likewise, included in the list.
  • British vs. Japanese Homosexuality Criminal Laws Nowadays, it is used in most of the countries that want to emphasize the diversity of the issue. It was not until the 1960s that the prominence of liberalisation of sex activity started to be […]
  • Age Bias, Disability, Gay Rights in the Workplace The article emphasises on the importance of paying attention to the language people use in the workplace and the effects that the misuse of language may have on the company.
  • Sexual Strangers: LGBT Politics in United States
  • United States v. Windsor – Homosexual Rights
  • Parenting: Learning That an Adolescent Is Gay or Lesbian
  • Challenges for Educators: Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Families
  • LGBTQ Issues in Korean Film Industry
  • Korean LGBTQ Films: The King and the Clown and Hello My Love
  • Homosexual Discrimination in Our Society: Causes and Effects
  • Homosexual Students and Bullying
  • Gay Judge’s Ruling Should Be Thrown Out
  • Gay and Lesbian Relationships’ Nature
  • Legalizing Gay Marriage in the US
  • The Evolution of the LGBT Rights
  • Queer Activism Influences on the Social Development of LGBT
  • “Gay Marriages” by Michael Nava and Robert Dawidoff
  • Dating Sites: Gay Latino Men and Women in Los Angeles
  • Globalization and Gay Tourism: Learning to Be Tolerant
  • Gay Marriage’s Social and Religious Debates
  • Members of the LGBT Community
  • Gay Marriage in The UK
  • Gay Marriage: Debating the Ethics, Religion, and Culture Analytical
  • Homosexuality, Religion and Atheism
  • Why Homosexuality Should Be Illegal
  • Homosexuals’ Right to Marry
  • Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgendered Labor and Employment Issues
  • LGBT Labor and Employment Issues
  • Transgender Students on Colleges: Needs and Challenges
  • Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Sexuality in the Hispanic Culture
  • Gay Marriages and US Constitution
  • The Issue of Gay Marriages: Meaning, Importance and Cons
  • Views of Young Australian and Chinese Adults on Homosexuality
  • The Article “Against Gay Marriage” by William J. Bennett
  • Gay Marriage, Same-Sex Parenting, And America’s Children
  • Homosexuality Criticism Rates
  • Clinton Homosexual Discrimination Policy
  • Gay Couples’ Right to Marriage
  • Discrimination, Social Exclusion and Violence among the LGBT Community
  • Homosexuality: Why only some intimacies are labeled as homosexuality
  • Defending Gay Marriage
  • Relation of Gay Marriage to the Definition of Marriage
  • Setting the Parameters for Regarding Homosexuality: To Whose Doors Should One Lay the Blame To?
  • “The New Gay Teenager” by Ritch Savin Williams
  • Concepts of Gay Marriage
  • Gay Marriage: Culture, Religion, and Society
  • Homosexuality in the Contemporary Society
  • Gay Marriages in New York
  • Suicides Among Male Teen Homosexuals: Harassment, Shame or Stigma?
  • The Homosexual Lifestyle Issues
  • Why Gay Marriages Should Not Be Legalized?
  • Gay Marriage as a Civil Rights Issue
  • Gay Marriage and Parenting
  • Should Gay Marriages Be Allowed?
  • Gender Studies: Gay Rights
  • Gay Couples Should Not to Marry
  • Arguments for and against Homosexuality: A Civil rights & Liberties Perspective
  • Gays in the Military
  • Reasons of the High Homosexual Marriage Rate
  • BEAR Magazine: Lifestyle Entertainment for Gay Men
  • Gay Marriage and Decision Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court
  • Gay Denied their ‘Rights’ in Australia
  • Arguments for Gay Marriages
  • Gender Studies: Gays and Lesbians Issues in 1940’s and 1950’s
  • Young Opinion on Homosexuality
  • Gay Marriages: Why Not Legalize Them?
  • Should We Allow Gay Marriages as Civil Unions?
  • Castro Gay Village’ Gentrification in San Francisco
  • Media and Homosexuality
  • Adopted Children With Gay Parents Have Better Chances of Succeeding
  • Must gay marriage to be legal?
  • Should Homosexuals be Allowed to Legally Marry?
  • Gay Marriage in the U.S.
  • A Critical Evaluation of Historical & Scientific Standpoints on Homosexuality
  • Gay marriage and homosexuality
  • Social Justice and Gay Rights
  • Gay Marriage Legalization
  • Gay in the Military
  • What Does LGBT Mean?
  • How LGBT Live in Russia?
  • Why Should the LGBT Community Serve Openly?
  • How LGBT Live in India?
  • How Can I Be More Inclusive With LGBT?
  • Are LGBT People Discriminated Against in the Hiring Process?
  • Why Should the LGBT Community Have Equal Rights?
  • What Were Cracker Barrels’ Reasons for Firing Their LGBT Employees?
  • How Does LGBT Culture Fall in Our Society Today?
  • How Happy Could LGBT People Be in a Homophobic Society Such as Ours?
  • Why LGBT Color Is Rainbow?
  • Why LGBT Teachers May Make Exceptional School Leaders?
  • How Does Stress Affect the LGBT Community?
  • Why Are LGBT Students Committing Suicide More Than Non?
  • Does LGBT Inclusion Promote National Innovative Capacity?
  • How Can I Be Kind to LGBT?
  • Are LGBT People Born This Way?
  • Does LGBT Marriage Threaten the Family?
  • How Are LGBT People Represented on TV?
  • How Virginia Woolf’s Orlando Subverted Censorship and Revolutionized the Politics of LGBT Love in 1928?
  • What Are the Different Flags for LGBT?
  • How LGBT Live in the USA?
  • How Successful Are LGBT People Straight Alliances?
  • Are You Born LGBT Person?
  • Were There LGBT Subcultures From the 1900s to the 1960s?
  • Homophobia Topics
  • Relationship Research Ideas
  • Freedom of Speech Ideas
  • Family Titles
  • Censorship Essay Ideas
  • Sexism Essay Ideas
  • Workplace Discrimination Research Topics
  • Stereotype Topics
  • Chicago (A-D)
  • Chicago (N-B)

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A milestone for researchers focused on LGBTQ health

SOGIE members

The Harvard SOGIE Health Equity Research Collaborative celebrates its 10-year anniversary during Pride Month 2021

June 22, 2021 – One day in June 2011, a handful of Harvard-affiliated researchers sat around a small table in a cramped sixth-floor library in Boston Children’s Hospital to talk about forming a collaborative focused on LGBTQ health. At the time, research on the topic was limited, focused mainly on simply documenting the fact that health disparities exist between LGBTQ individuals and their heterosexual, cisgender peers.

This June, the group—known as Harvard SOGIE (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Expression) Health Equity Research Collaborative —celebrates its 10th anniversary. Based at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard SOGIE now has 100+ members—including staff, trainees, and faculty, either currently or formerly affiliated with Harvard—from more than a dozen academic institutions across the U.S.

The field of LGBTQ health research has blossomed, according to Brittany Charlton , an assistant professor in the Department of Epidemiology at Harvard Chan School, who co-directs Harvard SOGIE along with Sabra Katz-Wise , an assistant professor in the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences . “Only recently have we been able to elucidate some of the mechanisms that drive health disparities between LGBTQ people and heterosexual, cisgender people,” said Charlton, who wrote about SOGIE’s milestone in a recent Twitter thread . “We’re at a turning point in the field where it’s possible to design interventions, advocate for policy changes, and improve the lives of LGBTQ people.”

Founded by Bryn Austin , professor in the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences at Harvard Chan School and research scientist in the Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine at Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard SOGIE supports researchers in a variety of ways—through biweekly works-in-progress meetings, journal clubs, professional development workshops, peer mentorship lunches, grant writing sessions, and seminar series.

Harvard SOGIE has also hosted advocacy trainings in order to help its members advocate for LGBTQ-inclusive policies like the Massachusetts Healthy Youth Act. “This bill would ensure youth receive sex education that is evidence-based, including age-appropriate information about sexual orientation and gender identity,” Charlton said. “It was introduced a decade ago—the same year that Harvard SOGIE was founded—and it’s critical that it passes.” Research from Charlton and her team has revealed that LGBTQ youth, in particular, need sex education; for example, LGBTQ youth have more unintended pregnancies than their heterosexual, cisgender peers. A recent study led by Ari Tabaac , an instructor at Boston Children’s Hospital, found that LGBTQ youth are seeking out supplemental sex education from peers and media as school-based curricula do not meet their needs.

Filling knowledge gaps

Charlton’s research team has focused over the last decade on documenting reproductive health issues facing LGBTQ people. “We know that this population is more vulnerable to poor gynecological health and they encounter barriers in their gynecological care,” said Charlton. “Despite the mounting evidence of gynecological disparities, we actually know almost nothing about the obstetrical health of LGBTQ people, or the health of their offspring at birth. This is especially troubling because we know that bisexual and lesbian women are more likely than heterosexual women to experience depression and to use substances—all because of the discrimination and stigma that LGBTQ people encounter—and that these are risk factors for adverse obstetrical outcomes.”

Charlton and her colleagues are helping to fill the research gap. She’s principal investigator of a new five-year R01 grant from the National Institutes of Health to study sexual orientation–related disparities in obstetrical and perinatal health, drawing on data from Harvard’s longitudinal studies, including the Nurses’ Health Study and the Growing Up Today Study. Co-investigators on the grant include Austin, Sebastien Haneuse , Jorge Chavarro , and Heather Eliassen , all from Harvard Chan School; and Bethany Everett of the University of Utah. “This new grant will enable us to reveal the needs of these vulnerable groups, and then be able to target interventions and improve the health of subsequent generations,” Charlton said.

Charlton and co-investigators Austin, Chavarro, and Stacey Missmer are also working to quantify sexual orientation–related cancer disparities and pinpoint the risk factors for such cancers, funded by a five-year grant from the American Cancer Society.

Other recent research by Harvard SOGIE members has covered a wide range of topics. For example, the New England Journal of Medicine published a Perspective piece by Carl Streed and colleagues about the importance of collecting data on sexual orientation and gender identity. Another study led by Alex McDowell revealed how non-discrimination policies lead to improved mental health among transgender individuals—those whose gender identity is different than their sex assigned at birth. Research led by Jessica Kremen outlined the harm of new legislation restricting access to healthcare for transgender youth.

Charlton described research in the field of LGBTQ health as “continuing to flourish,” propelled by growing interest around issues of health inequity. “People are increasingly thinking about the health of vulnerable populations—and that must include the LGBTQ community,” she said. “This is such a thrilling time to be in this field.”

– Karen Feldscher

photo courtesy Brittany Charlton

Put a stop to deadline pressure, and have your homework done by an expert.

211 LGBT Research Paper Topics To Ace Your Grades Easily

LGBT Research Paper Topics

The LGBT community has changed tremendously over the years. From the societal perception of individuals of this community to the legal rights that they have received, there has been a huge shift in the last century. LGBT activism has opened up several areas of research related to sociology, psychology, law and a lot more. Here are some LGBT research paper topics that let you delve into these areas and collect ample data and content.

With over 200 topics mentioned below, here are some tips that will help you pick the ones that suit you the best:

  • Choose a topic that is popular and trending
  • Make sure that the topic that you choose interests you
  • Do not opt for niche topics with very little data and information
  • Choosing controversial topics is a great way to build an argumentative paper.
  • Topics about books, films and other cultural contributors to LGBT activism spike tremendous interest and also provide great scope for research.

Best LGBT Thesis Topics

There are many areas of discussion when it comes to the LGBT community. Here are some of the best LGBT Research topics that will help you write a well-structured paper:

  • LGBT community and the changes in religious ideas and beliefs.
  • Classification of the LGBT community
  • The effect of culture on LGBT people
  • Laws and the LGBT community
  • Political parties that have been aligned with LBGT ideologies
  • Political preferences and the effect on the LBGT community
  • History of the LGBT community
  • Cultural norms and how they shaped LGBT history
  • Prominent personalities in LGBT history
  • The role of media in LGBT activism
  • Traces of lesbianism.
  • The origins of the LGBT community
  • Countries that first supported LGBT marriage
  • Why do some countries still not support LGBT marriage?
  • The influence of films and TV in supporting LGBT rights.
  • Most popular LGBT fictional characters on TV
  • LGBT themes in the Bible
  • The impact of LGBT and Heterosexual marriage
  • The increasing rate of depression among LGBT individuals
  • Workplace discrimination against LGBT community
  • The influence of the internet on the LGBT community.

Trending LGBT Research Topics

The growing interest in LGBT community and their rights always keeps them in the news. These are some LGBT essay topics that have become extremely popular in recent times:

  • The increasing rate of violence against the LGBT community
  • The Orlando nightclub shooting.
  • Unique issues of the LGBT community that have come to light
  • Celebrities who belong to the LGBT community
  • The impact of social media on LGBT rights
  • The need for LGBT inclusion in schools
  • Progress of the LGBT community in the last decade
  • Healthcare disparity in the LGBT community
  • The impact of sexual violence on the LGBT populations
  • The AIDS crisis and its impact on LGBT Rights
  • The perception of LGBT community in today’s society
  • The LGBT Community and increasing mental health issues.
  • Top LGBT friendly companies worldwide
  • Media coverage and the intersection between LGBT rights and religion
  • The increase in dedicated dating apps for the LGBT community
  • Safety concerns of children belonging to the LGBT community in schools
  • Recent laws to improve the quality of life of individuals in the LGBT community.
  • Increasing alcohol misuse in the LGBT community.
  • Beijing and its approach to LGBT Issues and Gay rights
  • The impact of the pandemic on the LGBT community
  • Your views on the addition of gender neutral pronouns in the White House website.

LGBT Essay Topics for Detailed Research

Some topics about the LGBT community have been discussed before and are very easy for students to collect material about. Here is a list of some LGBT discussion topics that allow detailed research and discussion:

  • Family planning in the LGBT community
  • Reproductive health of individuals from the LGBT community
  • Gender norms and the culture of your country
  • Domestic violence in the LGBT community
  • Racial exclusion within the LGBT community
  • The need for a better status of the LGBT community in the civil society
  • The issue of LGBT bullying
  • Traditional culture and the perception of LGBT community
  • The effect of the three branches of government on the LGBT community
  • The sociological perspective of the LGBT community
  • The need to legalize gay marriage across the globe.
  • The role of intersectionality in dealing with LGBT Issues.
  • The impact of LGBT community on urban change
  • How the LGBT community has contributed to TV and Films
  • How social media conversations about LGBT community have changed over the years.
  • The need for an LGBT center in schools and colleges
  • The need for LGBT centers at the workplace
  • Poverty and its effects of the LGBT community
  • The church and counselling for the LGBT community
  • The negative impact of victimizing adolescents in the LGBT community
  • The need to educate children about the LGBT community

Easy LGBT Topics for Research

Looking for topics that can help you write your paper without any stress? These are some of the easiest gay topics for research as they are popular and also have a lot of information available about them.

  • The Stonewall Riots of riot of 1969 and LGBT civil rights
  • LGBT community in Russia
  • Increasing cases of LGBT bullying in Japanese schools
  • The advantages of same sex adoption
  • Non traditional adoption and its benefits for the LGBT community
  • LGBT adoption laws.
  • The importance of LGBT Rights in the society
  • LGBT discrimination and the violation of civil rights
  • The plight of LGBT refugees in canada
  • The role of social media in increasing cases of depression in the LGBT community
  • Social media as the voice of the LGBT community
  • LGBT rights and the evolution over 50 years
  • The relationship between feminism and LGBT rights
  • Cultural evolution within the LGBT community
  • Voguing as a means of expression for the LGBT community
  • Contrasting opinions for feminism and the LGBT community
  • Homophobia in popular culture
  • The impact of homophobic hip hop music on attitudes towards the LGBT community
  • Common grounds between the LGBT community and feminists
  • How the LGBT community and feminists support each other
  • Homophobic incidents that shocked the world

Transgender Research Paper Topics

These transgender research questions help you understand the community better and also present facts and data in a structured manner.

  • Employment discrimination against transgenders
  • Transgenders: The Acts and Behaviours leading up to transitions
  • Depiction of transgenders in film and TV
  • Dealing with kids who are transgender
  • The issue of exclusive washrooms for transgenders
  • Transgenders in mythology
  • Societal discrimination against transgenders
  • The need to educate children about transgenders
  • The Big Five Personality Theory and Transgenders
  • Gender dysphoria
  • The advancement of epigenetics and genetics in treating gender dysphoria
  • Transgender roles in society
  • Difference between non-binary identity and transgender identity
  • The perception of cross dressing
  • Cultural contributions of the transgender community
  • What is dual role transvestism?
  • The psychological impact of being transgender
  • The various identities of transgender individuals
  • Understanding the difference between transgender and transexual
  • Transgender rights and their evolution
  • Primary reasons for people wanting to change their sex
  • The impact of the society and family on transgender individuals
  • Analysis of Simon Weil’s theory of equality
  • Review of the book ‘Call me Caitlyn’ and its impact on transgender community
  • Transgender and Self Identity
  • Challenges faced by transgender individuals on a daily basis
  • The challenges of transgender students
  • The importance given to transgenders in the Fairness of All Marylanders Act of 2014.
  • Ethical issues of gender reassignment surgery
  • The challenges of a transgender man versus a transgender woman.
  • Transgender identity and human rights
  • Instances of inhumane transgender discrimination
  • The transgender community and interpersonal relationships
  • Analysis of the film ‘Boys Don’t Cry”
  • Public opinion on the transgender community
  • Most popular Non Profit Organizations for Transgenders
  • Why Transgender Civil Rights are viewd as a Public Safety Issue
  • The causes for stigma against transgender individuals
  • Effects of video games on how transgender individuals are perceived.
  • Gender Segregated Bathrooms and Transgender Rights
  • Common issues faced by transgender patients

Controversial Human Sexuality Topics

Human sexuality has always been a subject of controversy. Here are some of the most popular LGBT topics for research paper that cover these issues.

  • The biological basis of sexual identification
  • How sexual orientation has become an added axis of inequality in our society
  • The impact of the idea of ‘Sex as Leisure’ on the LGBT community
  • The concept of consensual non-monogamy
  • Sexual science: Its it an oxymoron or an emerging discipline
  • The age at which children should be taught about sexuality
  • Biological research to support human sexual orientation
  • Common human sexuality issues
  • The need for more research on human sexuality
  • The psychological dimensions of human sexuality
  • Alternate sexual behaviours
  • The difference between sex, sexual orientation and gender
  • Are men more inclined to have casual sex?
  • The suppression of female sexuality
  • How evolutionary psychology has misguided our understanding of human sexuality
  • Sexual health and the LGBT community
  • Human sexuality is not binary. Comment
  • The shifting paradigms of sexuality and psychotherapy
  • The changing perceptions of human sexuality
  • The reasons for opposition to sexual education
  • Using pornographgic videos on free websites
  • The impact of media on the increasing cases of sexual addiction
  • Incompetence in research related to human sexual behaviour
  • The nature of Intimate relationships among same gender partners
  • Human sexuality and the ideas propagated in religious texts.

LGBT Group Discussion Topics

There are endless subjects and gay rights research paper topics that can open up serious discussions and arguments. Here are some of the most popular topics for group discussions:

  • Should same gender parents be allowed to adopt children? Do they make good parents?
  • Should individuals from the LGBT community be allowed to hold offices in religious institutions like the church?
  • Should the government have a say in who can get married and who should not get married?
  • What was the impact of feminism on LGBT Rights between the 1950s and the 1970s?
  • How can you characterize the progress made by individuals in the LGBT community in promoting equality for individuals with unique sexual identity?
  • Should the Universal Declaration of Human Rights include a special section for LGBT rights?
  • The effects of the Trump administration on the perception of the LGBT community
  • The effect of the retirement of Justice Kennedy on LGBT community?
  • Should discrimination agaisnt people of a different sexual orientation be an act punishable by law?
  • Why is there a disparity in healthcare provided to the LGBY community?
  • The causes for rampant drug addiction in the LGBY community
  • Should teachers from the LGBT community be offered protection in schools and universities
  • The role of language in disempowering and empowering the LGBT community
  • The best ways to raise awareness among people in parts of the world that are still homophobic
  • Does homophobia exist within the LGBT community?
  • Integration of individuals from the LGBT community into the armed forces and military services
  • Are LGBT families represented wrongly in media and in advertisements
  • Does racial exclusion exist within the LGBT community?
  • Are LGBT women treated differently from men who belong to the community?
  • Is there any obvious discrimination against youth belonging to the LGBT community in juvenile courts?
  • Is there a need for higher engagement among gay-straight alliances?

LGBT Project Ideas for Best Grades

If you plan to present a project on LGBT community, there are several topics that you can choose from. Here is a list of the best LGBT project ideas that have scope for interesting discussions and follow ups:

  • Gay Rights and the Roman Catholic Church
  • How school discipline affects sexual orientation: Provide population based samples
  • How marketing and advertisements are catering to the LGBT community in the current world.
  • The impact of dance in self expression among the LGBT community
  • Films based on LGBT rights and Activism
  • The need for exclusive Lesbian and Gay Film Festivals globally
  • The association of rainbow colours with the LGBT community
  • Pride marches and their political impact
  • Special stories of commitment and love in the LGBTQ community
  • A glossary of popular terms used by the LGBT community and their meaning
  • Different types of gender identity
  • The positive impact of media and journalism on LGBT rights
  • Why do people conceal their sexual identity?
  • The Supreme Court and its role in same sex marriage
  • Is LGBT Activism the Civil Rights Movement of the 21st Century?
  • Male perspective on gay versus lesbians
  • The challenges faced by the underground LGBT community
  • The Third Reich and the Persecution of Lesbian and Gay individuals
  • How the Homosexuality isse was avoided by the US military

Simple LGBT Writing Prompts

Use these LGBT Writing Prompts to build a strong subject for your research paper. They cover some of the most interesting and controversial topics in recent times.

  • Professional athletes and their struggles of coming out of the closet.
  • The depictions of homosexuality by Jack Kerouac and William S Burroughs
  • Changing family units because of the legalization of gay marriage
  • Increasing rates of suicide among lesbian aand gay adolescents
  • The changing psychological perspectives of homesecuality
  • Common social issues of the Gay and Lesbian community
  • The implications and links between depression and homosexiality
  • The modern transgender phenomenon
  • Myths and facts about the LGBT community and HIV
  • The most popular psychological theories about homosexuality
  • Homosexuality and the association with Alexander the Great
  • The concept of Machismo in the Latin American culture and their understanding of homosexuality
  • The African American Community and Homosexuality
  • The perceived threat of homosexuality because of gender roles
  • The 20th century world and the perspectives of homosexuality
  • Comparison of the LGBT community in Europe, Asia and America
  • Homosxuality in Greek and Roman mythology
  • The psychological causes and impact of homophobia
  • The social pressures of children of lesbian and gay parents
  • The psychological impact on children with gay and lesbian parents.
  • The most successful individuals in the world who belong to the LGBT community.

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A qualitative investigation of LGBTQ+ young people’s experiences and perceptions of self-managing their mental health

1 Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK

Daniel Hayes

2 The Evidence Based Practice Unit, Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families, London, UK

Peter Fonagy

Emily stapley, associated data.

Due to challenges in ensuring the anonymity of qualitative data, these data are not available to other researchers.

There is evidence that young people generally self-manage their mental health using self-care strategies, coping methods and other self-management techniques, which may better meet their needs or be preferable to attending specialist mental health services. LGBTQ+ young people are more likely than their peers to experience a mental health difficulty and may be less likely to draw on specialist support due to fears of discrimination. However, little is known about LGBTQ+ young people’s experiences and perceptions of self-managing their mental health. Using a multimodal qualitative design, 20 LGBTQ+ young people participated in a telephone interview or an online focus group. A semi-structured schedule was employed to address the research questions, which focussed on LGBTQ+ young people’s experiences and perceptions of self-managing their mental health, what they perceived to stop or help them to self-manage and any perceived challenges to self-management specifically relating to being LGBTQ+ . Reflexive thematic analysis yielded three key themes: (1) self-management strategies and process, (2) barriers to self-management and (3) facilitators to self-management. Participants’ most frequently mentioned self-management strategy was ‘speaking to or meeting up with friends or a partner’. Both barriers and facilitators to self-management were identified which participants perceived to relate to LGBTQ+ identity. Social support, LGBTQ+ youth groups and community support were identified as key facilitators to participants’ self-management of their mental health, which merits further investigation in future research. These findings also have important implications for policy and intervention development concerning LGBTQ+ young people’s mental health.

Introduction

Self-management has been defined as, “[t]he taking of responsibility for one's own behaviour and wellbeing” [ 1 , p. 1]. There is a lack of conceptual clarity in the self-management literature, as evidenced by multiple conflicting definitions to describe the concept [ 2 ]. For example, one study of chronic disease in older adults argued there is a distinction between ‘self-care’ as preventative and ‘self-management’ as managing the impact of a current difficulty or disease [ 3 ]. However, in mental health, as probably in many other long-term conditions, this distinction does not hold up, with interventions involving elements of self-management and self-care being used preventatively to identify and manage the early warning signs of manic episodes in bipolar disorder [ 4 ]. A recent study highlights the crossover between self-management and self-care in youth mental health by detailing strategies, such as meditation or deep breathing, which could be used for both illness prevention and management of existing symptoms [ 5 ]. Thus, it is likely that the terms self-management and self-care in the context of mental health are not mutually exclusive and may lie on a continuum of techniques and strategies.

In the last few decades, self-management has expanded from long-term illness toward youth mental health. The idea of caring for or managing oneself is appearing with increasing frequency in published research [ 5 , 6 ], United Kingdom (UK) policy [ 7 , 8 ] and reports from charities and health bodies [ 9 , 10 ]. This may be due to rising societal awareness of the heightened prevalence of mental health difficulties in young people in the UK (NHS Digital, 2018) and long wait times to access specialist youth mental health support [ 11 ]. In turn, attempts to facilitate the use of alternative or additional support options which better meet the needs of young people, are person-centred and exist in the places they ordinarily go have also increased in recent years [ 12 ]. Indeed, young people themselves have said that the efficacy of self-help and self-management resources, approaches and techniques should be a top research priority in relation to youth mental health interventions and services [ 13 ].

In young people’s mental health, self-management strategies could include self-care approaches [e.g., 5 ], unguided self-help interventions [e.g., 14 ] and coping or emotion regulation strategies [ 6 ]. For young people, strategies that can be employed on one’s own have been described as non-professionally mediated interventions [ 5 ]. Despite burgeoning interest in this area, there is a dearth of research investigating the nuances of self-management in young people’s mental health, particularly for young people whose difficulties may not be chronic, are undiagnosed or are below clinical thresholds. This group may be of particular importance if self-care happens to differentiate those who remain sub-threshold from those who are diagnosable and seek professional help. Such investigations are warranted to clarify the concept of self-management and understand what young people perceive they are doing to self-manage their mental health, which in turn will enable self-management strategies recommended to young people to be evidence-informed and better meet their needs.

In looking at the success (or otherwise) of health management strategies at a population level, it makes sense to look at groups at particularly high risk. Among socially excluded groups, such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) young people, there is a higher prevalence of mental health difficulties [ 15 ]. One in three LGBTQ+ young people in the UK will experience a mental health difficulty [ 15 ], and this figure is greater than the one in eight young people in the general population who will experience a mental health difficulty [ 15 ]. Evidence suggests that sexual minority adolescents are also more likely than their heterosexual peers to experience high levels of depressive symptoms, self-harm, lower life satisfaction and lower self-esteem [ 16 ]. The minority stress model posits the higher prevalence of mental health difficulties in the LGBTQ+ community is due to their experience of hostile social environments fuelled by prejudice, discrimination and stigma [ 17 ].

When a difficulty is encountered, there is evidence that LGBTQ+ people are less likely to access health services due to fear of discrimination [ 18 ], with mental health services perceived to be the most discriminatory amongst health services [ 19 ]. LGBTQ+ people also experience higher dissatisfaction with health services than heterosexual people [ 19 ]. As they are less likely to access health services, it is possible that LGBTQ+ young people are already using strategies to self-manage their mental health, although to-date, there has been no research into this. It is possible that LGBTQ+ young people are forced to self-manage their mental health due to a desire to avoid stigmatising services, and it may be possible that they may have developed particularly effective and robust strategies which may be useful to learn more about. Further research in this area could particularly benefit a group which is often overlooked, marginalised and for whom the pressures of daily life may be greater than their heterosexual or cisgender peers. This research will also enable us to see if LGBTQ+ young people need additional help in self-management and how this process might be facilitated for them.

Recently, a survey showed that 72% of LGBTQ+ young people in Northern Ireland use the Internet and social networks as a source of information or support [ 20 ], suggesting the potential utility of these formats for the distribution of information about self-management. However, a review of qualitative research related to LGBTQ+ young people’s mental health highlighted that many LGBTQ+ young people feel they need more support from their school, community and mental health providers as well as more information [ 21 ]. It is also not known what factors stop or help LGBTQ+ young people to self-manage their mental health. Research into this area is needed to ensure that the strategies and techniques LGBTQ+ young people are using and being recommended to self-manage their mental health are safe, evidence-based and have a positive impact on mental health outcomes.

To better understand the helpfulness of self-management strategies for LGBTQ+ young people’s mental health, and to potentially facilitate LGBTQ+ young people’s self-management of their mental health, there is a need to investigate which strategies LGBTQ+ young people are already using and those that they find helpful, as well as the perceived barriers and facilitators to successful self-management of their mental health. The current study attempts to address this gap in the literature and highlight the self-management process from the perspective of LGBTQ+ young people to learn more about specific factors affecting self-management of mental health for this group.

Research questions

  • What are LGBTQ+ young people’s experiences and opinions of using strategies or techniques to self-manage their mental health?
  • What are LGBTQ+ young people’s perceptions of what stops them from or helps them to self-manage their mental health?
  • What are LGBTQ+ young people’s perceptions of specific challenges (if any) for LGBTQ+ young people in self-managing their mental health?

Participants

Recruitment and sampling strategy.

During the two-month sampling period, young people from diverse ages, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations and geographical locations in the UK (including major metropolitan areas and rural areas, as well as areas known to have a significant LGBTQ+ presence and those not known for this) were recruited. The primary researcher contacted organisations specialising in gender diversity as well as general LGBTQ+ youth groups. Collecting these data and involving LGBTQ+ people in research can help to send a signal that their views and preferences are taken seriously and valued [ 18 ].

On the basis of accessing a wide range of views, a total of 85 LGBTQ+ youth groups or associated organisations, 12 LGBTQ+ University Societies, three post-graduate student cohorts and one participation group were identified via a Google search and the primary researcher’s existing organisational contacts and invited to participate in this research via email by the primary researcher. Staff from 40 interested groups were asked to distribute expression of interest forms to the young people they worked with along with a brief description of the project.

Following guidelines for reflexive thematic analysis, a sample size determined by saturation was not established before starting data collection [ 22 ]. Saturation is “the point at which no new information, codes or themes are yielded from data” [ 23 , p. 2]. Diversity of the sample and richness of the data were monitored during sampling. The decision to stop sampling at 20 participants was based on three considerations: sufficient diversity of the sample, quality or richness of the data being collected in relation to the research questions and the practical capacity of the primary researcher.

Demographic information

Of the 20 young people who participated in this study, their ages ranged from 13 to 24 years ( M  = 19.30, SD = 3.37).

In terms of gender identity, 12 participants identified as female, four preferred to self-describe, three identified as male and one preferred not to say. Self-described gender identities included nonbinary, gender queer and asexual. A total of 13 participants stated that their gender identity was the same as the sex assigned to them at birth, six as not the same as the sex assigned to them at birth, and one preferred not to say.

Regarding sexual orientation, eight participants preferred to self-describe, six identified as bi, four as a gay woman/lesbian, one as a gay man and one as heterosexual. Self-described sexual orientations included queer, questioning, pansexual, homoromantic asexual and asexual biromantic.

In terms of ethnicity, 13 participants identified as White—British, two as White—any other white background, one as White—Irish, one as Asian—Indian, one as mixed—White and Asian, one as Mixed—White and Black Caribbean and one as any other ethnic group—Persian.

Ethical considerations

Ethical approval for this study was obtained from the University College London Research Ethics Committee (Project ID: 17641/001). During the consent process, young people were reminded that they could leave the interview or focus group at any time without giving a reason and still receive a £10 voucher, which was offered to all participants. Parent/carer consent was obtained for participants under the age of 16, which was followed by assent from these participants. Participants were informed that interviews and focus groups would be kept confidential, barring the disclosure of harm to the participant or another person.

Data collection

A total of 20 young people participated in either an online focus group ( n  = 4 participants across two focus groups), or in a one-to-one telephone interview ( n  = 16 participants) over the one-month data collection period. Interviews and focus groups were conducted remotely via video call or phone owing to COVID-19-related restrictions on in-person contact.

Semi-structured interview and focus group schedules were developed by the primary researcher. This format allowed the researcher to ask open-ended questions to elicit information about participants’ thoughts, feelings and beliefs in relation to self-management [ 24 ]. Questions explored participants’ perceptions of the term ‘self-management’, the types of self-management strategies and techniques they perceived themselves to be using, and anything that stopped or helped them to self-manage. There was also an additional question relating to specific challenges experienced by the LGBTQ+ community in terms of self-management.

During the pilot phase of this research, the interview and focus group schedules were modified to include several follow-up questions if a young person mentioned the first COVID-19 lockdown in the UK (beginning in late-March 2020), or any other time-specific period, to investigate how participants’ experiences of self-management may by influenced by time and context. This decision allowed for discussion around the impact of the first COVID-19 lockdown in the UK as and when it came up, as the interviews and focus groups were conducted during this period. A decision was also made during the piloting phase to move solely to conducting individual interviews, rather than focus groups, due to the richness and highly personal nature of the data that was elicited in the interviews.

Data analysis

Thematic analysis.

The data were analysed to answer the three research questions following guidelines for reflexive thematic analysis [ 22 ] and drawing on the step-by-step process developed by Braun and Clarke [ 25 ]. This involved checking the transcripts against the audio files, reading the data in its entirety multiple times and taking notes, creating ‘codes’ which captured interesting aspects of the data systematically across the entire data set, bringing the codes and corresponding data extracts together into initial themes, checking that the themes captured the essence of the data extracts, continuing to refine and analyse each of the themes, and finally producing a report featuring vivid examples from the data extracts for each theme [ 25 ].

A second researcher (ES) reviewed the initial coding structure once it had been generated by the primary researcher to check that the codes reflected the content of the included data excerpts. After this, the primary researcher further refined the codes and began to group the codes into themes and subthemes, i.e., overarching categories encompassing all of the included codes. The primary researcher then checked that the codes and included data reflected each of the themes.

Epistemological stance

The primary researcher holds a realist ontological and relativist epistemological stance in relation to the analysis of these data. This can be described as a critical realist approach, which asserts that a reality independent from subjective experience exists, while situating the findings of this research in the belief that it is not possible to objectively understand or fully access this reality [ 26 ]. The primary researcher also acknowledges that the manner in which participants perceive reality is subjective. In other words, different people interpret reality in different ways, given that “knowledge is always situated” [ 27 , p. 7]. Thus, the analysis focuses primarily on the semantic or language-based themes identified in the dataset, with some investigation of the potential latent meanings of these themes, as well as the wider societal and cultural context. An inductive approach to analysing these data was taken, meaning that the results are data-driven [ 25 ].

Theme 1: Self-management strategies and process

Subtheme 1: list of strategies for self-management.

A total of 51 strategies for self-management of mental health were identified. These encompassed strategies participants perceived themselves to have personally used as well as those they perceived others to have used (see Table 1 ).

Specific self-management strategies and frequency mentioned

Self-management strategyNumber and percentage of participants who mentioned strategy
Speaking to or meeting up with friends or a partner13 (65%)
Distraction9 (45%)
Being productive or achieving something8 (40%)
Writing or journaling8 (40%)
Exercise7 (35%)
Speaking to or meeting up with family7 (35%)
Watching television, a specific series, or a movie6 (30%)
Listening to or playing music6 (30%)
Going to therapy or counselling, speaking to a professional5 (25%)
Sleeping, napping, or having a sleep schedule5 (25%)
Participating in enjoyable activities or hobbies5 (25%)
Balancing emotions or thoughts, recognising thinking errors, or stopping a downward spiral4 (20%)
Reading4 (20%)
Separating or detaching yourself from the situation4 (20%)
Going outside, going for a walk4 (20%)
Meditation3 (15%)
Eating well, having a healthy diet3 (15%)
Playing a game3 (15%)
Attending an LGBTQ+ youth group3 (15%)
Taking medication3 (15%)
Being positive3 (15%)
Being on your own or having time to yourself3 (15%)
Having a treat3 (15%)
Cooking or baking2 (10%)
Volunteering or helping others2 (10%)
Having a shower, taking a bath, hygiene2 (10%)
Taking a break, taking the pressure off2 (10%)
Drinking enough water2 (10%)
Painting and drawing2 (10%)
Gardening2 (10%)
Breathing2 (10%)
Drinking alcohol2 (10%)
Applying therapeutic techniques2 (10%)
Mindfulness2 (10%)
Speaking to a cuddly toy1 (5%)
Peer support1 (5%)
Letting it happen or breaking down1 (5%)
Recording a letter to yourself1 (5%)
Actively doing something1 (5%)
Using apps1 (5%)
Getting dressed in the morning1 (5%)
Taking vitamin D tablets1 (5%)
Stimming1 (5%)
Putting on comfy clothes1 (5%)
Self-harm1 (5%)
Crafting1 (5%)
Repetitive handwashing1 (5%)
Yoga1 (5%)
Positive self-reminders, mantras, or setting intentions1 (5%)
Anchoring techniques1 (5%)
Martial arts1 (5%)
Using resources1 (5%)
Using drugs or substances1 (5%)
Target shooting1 (5%)

Participants’ most frequently mentioned self-management strategy was ‘speaking to or meeting up with friends or a partner’. This dovetails with the perceived importance of social support, which was identified as a facilitator to self-management. While this strategy involved someone other than the ‘self’, participants described how they self-initiated the help-seeking behaviour of reaching out to others for support with their mental health.

Having people speak to you about their own mental health can be very reassuring, ‘cause like helping someone does that, it makes you feel like helping yourself with your own mental health is a lot [more] feasible. (Interviewee 4)

Many of the strategies described by participants involved elements of balancing, distracting oneself from, or regulating thoughts or emotions through the process of participating in the self-management activity or strategy. For example, with regards to target shooting as a self-management strategy, one participant explained:

It's more about distracting yourself, letting your body cool down, and then, when you've cooled down, then you can have that rationalised, proportionate response. (Interviewee 7)

Subtheme 2: Awareness, reaction and prevention

Participants described a process of awareness, reaction and prevention in self-managing their mental health. In terms of awareness, participants highlighted the importance of noticing or paying attention to signs of good or deteriorating mental health.

Even if not actively working on figuring it out, just passively paying some mind to consider what kind of things are good for your mental health. (Interviewee 4)

In terms of reacting, participants described actively using self-management tools, strategies, techniques or skills to combat difficulties or problems they were experiencing, which could help them when they were feeling overwhelmed. In terms of prevention, being proactive and vigilant were also perceived to be important aspects of the self-management of participants’ mental health, even when they were not experiencing poor mental health.

So the proactive things I do are from a place where nothing bad is necessarily happening, and my mental health is not really flaring up or, or doing anything, um, particularly bad, or, or, particularly abnormal, but I aim to keep it that way by doing things in anticipation. (Interviewee 2)

Theme 2: Barriers to self-management

Subtheme 1: self-management can be hard work.

Nearly all participants ( n  = 18) described times when they felt too low, tired or not in the right mindset to self-manage their mental health, which could sometimes be exacerbated by experiencing mental illness or chronic pain. They also explained that sometimes attempts to self-manage could be unsuccessful, which could lead to feelings of discouragement or disappointment.

It can be very disheartening if you think, if it seems like you’re putting in all this effort and nothing’s coming of it. (Focus Group 2, Participant 1)

The actual process of self-management was described as tiring and time-consuming, with participants explaining they sometimes did not know what to do or where to start.

I feel like one of the biggest inhibitors of self-management is if your emotions get too loud and [if] those thoughts get too loud, it's very hard to try and think over them. (Interviewee 6)

Subtheme 2: Strategy-specific challenges

Participants perceived there to be negative or less helpful factors about some self-management strategies. For instance, regarding speaking to or meeting up with friends, one participant explained:

Especially if you’re just talking about how you’re having mental health problems to other people who have those problems all the time, it can kind of cause this, like, negative feedback loop um, with that. So that can be less helpful. (Interviewee 5)

Participants also mentioned self-management strategies or techniques which they had found to be unhelpful, ineffective or counterproductive, such as drinking alcohol, self-harming or repetitively washing their hands.

For a little period, I self-harmed... I was kind of looking for an outlet anywhere I could find at that moment. And, I'd, I’d never feel better afterwards, I'd feel worse. (Interviewee 9)

Subtheme 3: Wanting to wallow

Participants described feeling like they were sometimes their own worst enemy or wanting to wallow in the negative emotions they were feeling, which could prevent them from engaging in self-management. In this context, the ‘self’ was perceived to be a barrier to self-management.

If you just can’t bring yourself to do it, then, it, I found that you sort of end up wallowing in like, the sort of self-pity. (Interviewee 11)

Participants described feeling responsibility to self-manage their mental health. This was perceived to operate as a double-edged sword, both allowing participants to rely on themselves and be decisive, but also creating pressure and a sense that the onus was on them.

It’s like really hard knowing one day you’re going to have to be the one that is relatively solely responsible for, like, engaging in self-care and managing, like, your wellbeing. (Focus Group 2, Participant 2)

Subtheme 4: Fear of judgement

While participants perceived others to be important in helping them to self-manage their mental health, they also discussed factors which might hinder them from reaching out, such as feeling judged or thinking their family would be worried about them.

Like if I told [my family] what actually went on, they'd be kicking off and really worried and panicky. So, that isn't helpful. (Interviewee 7)

On the other hand, having a safe space or feeling safe to talk about their thoughts and emotions with others was viewed as helpful in self-managing participants’ mental health.

Having good supportive relationships and being in a space where I don’t feel very threatened or have any, any severe issues, uh, means that I can work on myself, uh, a lot better. (Interviewee 2)

Subtheme 5: Cultural and environmental challenges

Participants described ways in which culture and environment could influence self-management. It was highlighted by participants that there are different cultural understandings of self-management, which could cause people to view the concept differently from one another.

In (Foreign Language 1) it’s not that uh common to use like the word self-management or talk about emotional regulation. It’s not like integrated into the vocabulary. (Focus Group 1, Participant 1)

Participants also highlighted that some cultures have more challenges around accessing treatment, a different understanding of mental health, or a perception that mental illness is taboo. These challenges could also apply to certain generations within a particular culture, or over time as a culture became more progressive.

And, and I think in (Country 1), it’s just kind of taboo, like, in not, not so much anymore, but it’s just impossible to even, like, if you Google ‘mental health’, like, there will be fewer results. (Interviewee 12)

A perception was also highlighted that participants’ physical location could influence their ability to self-manage their mental health, particularly in environments not conducive to certain self-management strategies or techniques.

It depends on the environment you’re in. ‘Cause if you’re in, like, an education-based building in the middle of the day, it’s not like you can go to your bedroom and try and relax or whatever. (Interviewee 13)

A number of perceived challenges to self-management of mental health stemming from the COVID-19 lockdown in the UK were also discussed by participants. Participants perceived these challenges to negatively affect their ability to self-manage as well as damaging to their general mental health and wellbeing. They described reverting to behaviours indicative of poor mental health like repetitive handwashing, feeling anxiety about going outside, experiencing a lack of structure or routine, not being able to attend locations where they could participate in self-management strategies or enjoyable activities due to closures, not having a reason to get out of the house or to get out of bed, not being able to attend LGBTQ+ youth groups, experiencing an extension of waiting lists or difficulties in accessing mental health care, not being able to spend as much time with friends, work pressures increasing during the lockdown period, experiencing uncertainty and instability resulting from exams being cancelled and feeling anxiety about the pandemic and the future.

It was mostly just a very lengthy waiting list. Of course, it was exacerbated by the lockdown. (Interviewee 2)

Subtheme 6: Digital complexities

Participants mentioned a number of digital complexities relating to self-management and self-care. They perceived ‘self-care’ to be the most recognisable term owing to online promotion. Participants explained that this could lead to particular societal connotations of self-care which could be negative or centred around profit.

It just kind of has become this whole industry of bullet journals and things that I think make finding actual self-care a little complex. (Interviewee 12)

Participants described researching self-care and self-management online and accessing a ‘plethora of resources’ including online videos, Facebook groups, information about LGBTQ+ groups, information about counselling and professional help, information about different self-management strategies and online message boards.

So I, kind of, looked online and seeked advice and, you know, through mental health professionals included. (Interviewee 6)

However, participants did not always find these suggestions or resources helpful, and at times the abundance of available information could be perceived to be overwhelming.

Subtheme 7: ‘Outness’ affects self-management

Participants described how an LGBTQ+ person who was not completely out 1 might find it more challenging to self-manage, as they might have to self-manage on their own. Not being out was perceived to contribute to challenges around accessing therapy for LGBTQ+-related difficulties, not having social or school support around being LGBTQ+, not being able to access an LGBTQ+ youth group and not having access to judgement-free spaces.

I didn’t feel like I had anyone I could talk to about it, because I didn’t feel comfortable to come out to anyone yet. (Interviewee 4)

Nearly all participants ( n  = 18) perceived cultural or societal intolerance of LGBTQ+ people to have a profoundly negative impact on LGBTQ+ young people’s ability to self-manage their mental health, which was also influenced by their degree of ‘outness’. Participants discussed how they believed LGBTQ+ people were more likely to experience adverse events or trauma resulting from homophobia, transphobia, discrimination or a general lack of understanding or support from others. These were linked by participants to increased stress, a reduced capacity to cope, and internalised homophobia.

I have a lot of in-built insecurities that I didn’t experience until I came out, and a lot of sadness and trauma inherited from the community almost. And so, it adds something else to tackle, so it just means you may have more to be contending with. (Focus Group 2, Participant 2)

Participants described how growing up with intolerance could lead to a detrimental sense of internalised homophobia, which was perceived to contribute to poor mental health and hinder self-management, as it was another challenge to tackle in helping oneself. However, participants also highlighted that the self-management techniques and strategies they had successfully used were not specifically tailored for LGBTQ+ young people, and that there was not necessarily a lack of access to self-management tools and techniques for LGBTQ+ young people.

I came out, when was it? Like a couple of years ago, um, but that hasn’t significantly, like, a few experiences happened that did make my mental health somewhat worse, but, the techniques that I was using worked just as well for those experiences as they did for others . (Interviewee 3)

Participants perceived family members’ rejection of their LGBTQ+ identity to have a negative impact on their capacity to self-manage. These stressful or negative experiences could lead to fear or low self-esteem, which participants perceived to undermine their help-seeking efforts.

Trying to help yourself and self-care, um, it might be difficult in a situation where you're around others that are completely undermining you and, um, are trying to steer you away from trying to help yourself. (Interviewee 14)

Participants also described how they felt they had to be less open with their parents, carers or particular members of their family due to fears that they did not meet their heteronormative expectations. They feared that they would be met with homophobia, transphobia or other discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.

There’s also the other part of my family, which is homophobic, and I’m terrified of coming out to. (Interviewee 1)

This fear of a negative reaction was cited as something that might prevent participants from drawing on others for support in self-managing their mental health.

Theme 3: Facilitators to self-management

Subtheme 1: balance and routine.

Participants described the importance of feeling balanced and being able to get into a regular routine of self-management. They described mental health in terms of one’s mental state, which ideally would be balanced or controlled. The act of self-management was described as a method for regaining balance which could lead to happiness, focussing on the positive or feeling more calm and clear-minded.

When I was in the routine of, of meditating, it becomes a habit, and then it becomes a lot easier to do that. And the m-, the easier it becomes to do something, a coping mechanism that helps me, like meditating, the easier it then becomes to do any other given task on that day. (Interviewee 2)

In relation to location, having a quiet space to self-manage away from others was described as important by participants.

Some people, I don’t know, don’t have like a quiet space where they can go to kind of relax and, and meditate and kind of feel better in themselves. (Interviewee 15)

Finally, participants viewed having a routine for self-management as important. This could involve a daily pattern of behaviour, writing things down or planning ahead.

Subtheme 2: Intrinsic benefits of self-management

Despite experiencing challenges in self-management, participants also described intrinsic benefits stemming from self-managing their mental health. These included a sense of agency, ownership, freedom and confidence that came from successfully self-managing or knowing how to self-manage.

You know that you have yourself to thank for it, at the end of the day. Like it feels incredibly good when it does go right to be able to say, kinda yeah, I did that, there’s no two ways around it. (Focus Group 2, Participant 1)

This ability to manage their mental health was attributed by participants to allowing them to live a better life. Similarly, participants described how the process of self-management could be quite enjoyable, as it could involve activities they already liked to do.

A lot of those things are, are things that do make me happy anyway. It’s not all just a slog of having to do these things to keep my mental health, you know, working well. (Interviewee 2)

Participants also described how feeling connected, grounded, present and grateful could contribute to and result from self-managing their mental health. This was intertwined with a sense of perspective, purpose, peace or clarity of mind.

Subtheme 3: Importance of social motivation and support

When asked about good mental health, participants described interacting socially with others, including speaking to family and friends, contributing to society and enjoying spending time with friends.

A lot of my friends have had experiences with mental health issues in the past, so they can, they can, uh, commiserate with that when I want to talk about it. But also just, hanging out and having a good time and laughing and that sort of stuff just makes me feel happy, and that can, that can make the difference between having a, a good day and a bad day, uh mental health wise. (Interviewee 2)

Conversely, participants highlighted that a sign of poor mental health could be feeling unable to be around other people, isolating oneself, taking others’ comments personally or misjudging social situations.

If it's, say, a negative self-doubt that you might feel, that's a product of poor mental health, be- say you're out with your friends, and, you know, usually a joke might, th- that you might laugh at, suddenly is now a deep personal attack. (Interviewee 6)

This participant also went on to explain that their interpretation of a situation when their mental health was poor did not necessarily align with what was happening in reality.

The majority of participants ( n  = 16) perceived social motivation and support to be important in self-managing their mental health. This involved participants’ family members, friends, flatmates or partners, who could be helpful in providing a listening ear, giving encouragement, reminding them to self-manage or checking their emotions or thoughts.

It makes it much more fun and um, motivational like if there’s other people on board, then you’re like, okay, we’re all in this together. (Focus Group 1, Participant 2)

Subtheme 4: Asking for help and vulnerability

Participants highlighted the perceived importance of being able to ask for help from others or seeking help from a professional to self-manage their mental health. This was linked by participants to good self-management, and it was acknowledged that sometimes outside help was necessary despite efforts to self-manage alone.

I think sometimes it becomes that idea of, "You can do it by yourself. You don't need somebody else to help self-manage." When sometimes you do need someone else's perspective or someone else's professional skills to give you new ideas or to help you help yourself. (Interviewee 5)

It was also highlighted that asking for help involved an element of vulnerability and opening up.

So, self-management also involves the ability to be vulnerable, and the ability to speak to other people about things that you’re going through. (Focus Group 1, Participant 2)

Subtheme 5: Benefits of the COVID-19 lockdown in terms of self-management

Participants highlighted a number of perceived benefits resulting from the COVID-19 lockdown which related to their ability to self-manage. One of these was having more free time to stop, self-reflect and think without distraction, which could help with focussing on self-management.

Mostly since lockdown, ‘cause obviously I’ve, you know, I’ve had a lot of time to just sort of self-evaluate, self-reflect, and I’ve found that maybe this is something that I was neglecting. (Interviewee 11)

Other perceived benefits included developing a closer relationship with family members, spending less time commuting, developing a more regular routine, not having to prepare for stressful exams, being more positive and putting things into perspective, appreciating spending time with friends more, having the opportunity to participate in social justice initiatives and striking a better work-life balance.

Like lockdown has actually been a godsend because I was not looking forward to A Levels and I was getting myself worked up in it, and also my atmosphere at school wasn't great... So, it's now like having more free time, having my dedicated space for like, the meditation. (Interviewee 7)

Subtheme 6: LGBTQ+ community helps with self-management

Participants described a perception that identifying as LGBTQ+ and having access to the wider LGBTQ+ community, either through youth groups, friends who are also LGBTQ+, online resources or forums specifically for LGBTQ+ people or LGBTQ+ events like Pride, could help them to self-manage their mental health.

Like, there's a solid community that I've been able to access because I identify as LGBTQ + ... There’s also, kind of, opportunities to reach out to others like you, and kind of reach out to people who can help, with the same perspective. (Interviewee 9)

In comparison to someone who did not identify as LGBTQ+, participants felt they might experience fewer challenges in self-managing their mental health. They attributed this again to their access to the LGBTQ+ community, which they perceived to strengthen their sense of togetherness and camaraderie (both online and in person) and to provide them with a safe space to talk to others. This was seen as something potentially inaccessible to people who were not members of the LGBTQ+ community.

And I suppose there’s also ways that it makes it, not easier, but, in other ways more positive, such as having this community, the LGBTQ + community, who understand you, without even having to know you... maybe someone who isn’t LGBTQ + , who doesn’t have the best surroundings, may not have that community sense, um, of encouragement. (Focus Group 2, Participant 1)

This research investigated LGBTQ+ young people’s experiences and perceptions of self-managing their mental health. Specifically, this research aimed to illuminate LGBTQ+ young people’s experiences and opinions of using strategies or techniques to self-manage their mental health, their perceptions of what stops them from or helps them to self-manage their mental health, and their perceptions of specific challenges (if any) for LGBTQ+ young people in self-managing their mental health. Three overarching themes were identified covering self-management strategies and barriers and facilitators to self-management (see Table ​ Table2). 2 ). These themes are discussed in turn and compared and contrasted with existing literature.

Themes and subthemes

ThemeSubtheme
Self-management strategies and processList of strategies for self-management
Awareness, reaction and prevention
Barriers to self-managementSelf-management can be hard work
Strategy-specific challenges
Wanting to wallow
Fear of judgment
Cultural and environmental challenges
Digital complexities
‘Outness’ affects self-management
Facilitators to self-managementBalance and routine
Intrinsic benefits of self-management
Importance of social motivation and support
Asking for help and vulnerability
Benefits of the COVID-19 lockdown in terms of self-management
LGBTQ+ community helps with self-management

Specific self-management strategies

Several of the self-management strategies identified in the current study align with previous research investigating coping [ 6 ] and non-professionally mediated interventions [ 5 ]. Stapley et al. [ 6 ] identified similar coping strategies, including ‘digital or media entertainment’, ‘creative activities’, ‘being physically active’, ‘positive thinking or optimism', ‘ignoring people, feelings or situations’, ‘social support’ and ‘other professional support’ (see Table ​ Table1). 1 ). Likewise, a number of non-professionally mediated interventions identified in Wolpert et al.’ study reflected the self-management strategies identified in the current study, including (but not limited to) reading, self-harm, talking to someone you know and trust, positive thinking, physical exercise, sleep, mindfulness, walking, spending time outdoors in nature, warm bath, writing things down and making music [ 5 ]. This overlap suggests that participants perceived some coping strategies and non-professionally mediated interventions to also be self-management strategies, giving credence to the idea that these lie on a continuum of caring for oneself.

Barriers to self-management

LGBTQ+ young people in the current study perceived themselves to be at a higher risk of experiencing trauma or adverse events resulting from identity-related discrimination. This is reflected in research showing that LGBTQ+ young people describe experiencing rejection, isolation, discrimination, abuse, bullying and homophobia or transphobia [ 21 ], as well as evidence suggesting that sexual minority adolescents are more likely to experience all forms of bullying and victimisation in comparison to their heterosexual peers [ 16 ]. Findings from the current study also suggest that experience of these negative or adverse events can have a detrimental effect on LGBTQ+ young people’s capacity to self-manage their mental health, which aligns with previous literature suggesting that adverse events can affect young people’s ability to cope [e.g., 29 ]. While the association between adverse events and poorer mental health for LGBTQ+ young people has been established [ 16 ], more research is needed into how LGBTQ+ young people’s capacity to self-manage may mitigate this. However, the barriers ‘wanting to wallow’ and ‘self-management is hard work’ in the current study could suggest that even in the absence of adverse events, self-management is a challenging process for LGBTQ+ young people to initiate or engage in at times.

Lack of acceptance from family was also perceived by participants to be a barrier to self-management of mental health. This aligns with the individual and family self-management model, which maintains that family members play a key role in the management of illness, particularly for younger people [ 30 ]. It is possible that the degree to which an LGBTQ+ young person is out with their family and friends also acts as a barrier, as an LGBTQ+ young person who is not out may fear judgement from family and friends, which was also mentioned as a barrier to self-management in the current study.

The COVID-19 lockdown in the UK appeared to contribute to a number of perceived barriers to self-management of mental health in the current study. The negative impact of the lockdown on LGBTQ+ young people’s mental health was echoed in research by Kneale and Becares [ 31 ], who found high levels of both stress and depressive symptoms amongst LGBTQ+ people during the lockdown, particularly in the case of younger and transgender respondents, as they were more likely than others in the LGBTQ+ community to have experienced some form of discrimination during the pandemic. Experiences of discrimination such as these have been associated with greater symptoms of emotional difficulties like anxiety and depression amongst transgender people [ 32 ]. The findings from the current study did not suggest that participants had experienced additional discrimination during the lockdown, but instead that the barriers to self-management resulting from the pandemic were partly perceived to be due to not being able to access vital services, attend LGBTQ+ youth groups, socialise as often with friends or attend extracurricular activities due to closures. These barriers align with the minority stress model, which posits that mental health outcomes for LGBTQ+ people are affected by coping and social support, both from the community and individuals [ 17 ], which were likely negatively affected by lockdown-related closures and government-mandated restriction on in-person socialising.

Facilitators to self-management

The current study suggests that the degree which an LGBTQ+ person is out influences their perceived ability to access self-management support from friends, family or their community. This aligns with the minority stress model, which positions ‘minority identity’ as an important factor influencing LGBTQ+ people’s mental health outcomes, coping and social support [ 17 ]. This also links with findings from previous research suggesting that LGBTQ+ young people who are not out might struggle to access self-management support from friends, family or their community [ 21 ]. The current study’s findings also suggest that LGBTQ+ young people who have access to the LGBTQ+ community may find it easier to self-manage their mental health, and that this community can serve as an oasis of social support and acceptance in a heteronormative world. This aligns with findings suggesting that LGBTQ+ people perceive the LGBTQ+ community to have a positive effect on their mental health and wellbeing through providing support and reducing a sense of isolation [ 33 ]. There is evidence that peer support such as this amongst LGBTQ+ young people can reduce a sense of marginalisation and the likelihood of poor mental health outcomes [ 34 , 35 ]. Additionally, social support and motivation and having a safe space to self-manage were mentioned by participants in the current study as facilitating self-management of their mental health, which aligns with policy highlighting the importance of having safe and supportive social environments in the mental health of LGBTQ+ young people [ 36 ].

Positive effects of the COVID-19 lockdown in terms of self-management, particularly in relation to having more free time and thinking positively, were echoed in findings from the Teenagers’ Experiences of Life in Lockdown (TELL) Study [ 37 ]. This research suggested that young people in the UK experienced an enjoyable sense of relief from stressors they were previously experiencing in their daily lives and a sense of positivity during the lockdown [ 37 ]. Likewise, the negative implications of the lockdown mentioned in the current study also aligned with those in the TELL Study, including young people feeling increased fear, anxiety and distress about COVID-19 as well as other aspects of their daily lives [ 37 ].

Finally, participants in the current study highlighted their tendency to seek out information regarding self-management or self-care online. The influence of digital support on LGBTQ+ young people’s self-management of their mental health merits further exploration in future research, as there is evidence that the Internet is one of the main methods of accessing support for members of the LGBTQ+ community [ 21 ]. Therefore, it is likely that an intervention to facilitate self-management would benefit from a digital format, and there is some evidence that young people from a nonclinical population already use digital technology for reducing stress and would find a digital self-management tool useful [ 38 ].

Strengths and limitations

This study has several strengths. Firstly, a diverse group of participants in terms of ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age and geographic location was recruited, which increased the likelihood that a broad range of views were accessed. Secondly, the inductive nature of the analysis performed allowed for the identification of themes which went beyond the original research questions (e.g., ‘Wanting to wallow’) and spoke to the heterogeneity of experiences regarding LGBTQ+ young people’s self-management of their mental health. A further strength was the enlistment of an additional researcher in checking the coding for the analysis, which enhanced the trustworthiness of the analysis by ensuring that the primary researcher’s interpretations were grounded in the data [ 39 ]. Finally, this study involved members of the LGBTQ+ community who identified with any sexual orientation or gender identity, including those who identified as heterosexual, ensuring that a full range of views could be accessed without adhering to rigid or binary conceptualisations of gender identity or sexual orientation. This is important because it emphasised the researchers’ position at the beginning that gender is a construct and reduced the likelihood that the results were influenced by a bias of heteronormativity, which could have led participants to feel less able to talk about their experiences as it this be perceived as discriminatory or naïve.

There are also some limitations to this research. These findings cannot be generalised to all LGBTQ+ young people but may be applicable to wider populations, as many of the experiences and perceptions may also ring true for other young people in the UK. Additionally, while recruitment yielded a good geographic spread of participants, not all areas in the UK were covered (e.g., Scotland), which means that if there is geographic variation in experiences and perceptions in these areas, it may not have been captured by this study. It is also possible that these data were skewed toward young people who were more likely to be out, as the majority of participants were involved with LGBTQ+ youth groups, meaning the views of LGBTQ+ young people who are less out and therefore more likely to draw on anonymous sources of self-management support merit further investigation. Additionally, participants under the age of 16 were required to provide parent/carer consent to participate, which meant that young people under the age of 16 who were not out to their parents may not have chosen not to participate. Although participants 16 and older did not require parental consent, it is likely that young people who were living with parents/carers who were unsupportive of LGBTQ+ people chose not to participate due to fears of being overheard or not having sufficiently private space available to them. Successfully recruited participants were also those who had access to computers, headphones, tablets or mobile phones, potentially excluding young people with reduced financial means. Future research may benefit from recruiting LGBTQ+ young people from the general population, particularly in-person as COVID-19-related restrictions ease, as this might yield greater diversity of views relating to self-management and provide a helpful point of comparison.

This is the first research study, to our knowledge, to investigate LGBTQ+ young people’s experiences and perceptions of self-managing their mental health, as well as the barriers and facilitators to self-management for this group. Findings established that LGBTQ+ young people perceive themselves to be using multiple strategies to self-manage their mental health and perceive there to be a number of barriers and facilitators to this process. These findings support further exploration into the development of or provision of research-informed support to an intervention or policy to support self-management, particularly that which can be tailored for specific groups (e.g., gender diverse individuals), as some groups might find particular ways of self-managing their mental health more helpful than others [ 32 ]. A key area of future investigation should be into social and LGBTQ+ youth group or community support as key facilitators to the self-management of mental health, as these were highlighted by participants in the current study and have implications for policy and intervention development. More research is needed into digital mental health interventions for LGBTQ+ young people, and how such interventions could facilitate LGBTQ+ young people’s self-management of their mental health, to potentially improve mental health outcomes for this group.

Acknowledgements

The authors of this paper like to thank the young people, LGBTQ+ youth group leaders, participation officers and other professionals who either participated in this study, joined an informal advisory group meeting, or helped to recruit LGBTQ+ young people to participate in this research. They would also like to acknowledge and thank the Evidence Based Practice Unit, The Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families, University College London and the National Institute for Health Research ARC North Thames for their support with this research.

Author contributions

All authors have contributed to writing and editing this manuscript.

This report is independent research funded by the National Institute for Health Research ARC North Thames. The views expressed in this report are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the National Institute for Health Research or the Department of Health and Social Care.

Data availability

Declarations.

The authors have no conflicts of interest or competing interests to disclose.

1 The word ‘out’ used by participants is viewed by the primary researcher to refer to ‘coming out’, which can be defined as “To acknowledge or declare openly that one is homosexual. Also in extended use with reference to other sexual or gender identities” [ 28 , p. 1].

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  • The Global Divide on Homosexuality Persists

But increasing acceptance in many countries over past two decades

Table of contents.

  • Acknowledgments
  • Methodology
  • Appendix B: Classifying European political parties

A member of the LGBT community takes part in a 2019 Pride walk in India. (Diptendu Dutta/AFP via Getty Images)

This analysis focuses on whether people around the world think that homosexuality should be accepted by society or not. The full question wording was, “And which one of these comes closer to your opinion? Homosexuality should be accepted by society OR Homosexuality should not be accepted by society.”

The question is a long-term trend, first asked in the U.S. by the Pew Research Center in 1994 and globally in 2002. Respondents had an option to not answer the question (they could volunteer “don’t know” or refuse to answer the question). Respondents did not get any further instructions on how to interpret the question and no significant problems were noted during the fielding of the survey.

The term “homosexuality,” while sometimes considered anachronistic in the current era, is the most applicable and easily translatable term to use when asking this question across societies and languages and has been used in other cross-national studies, including the World Values Survey .

For this report, we used data from a survey conducted across 34 countries from May 13 to Oct. 2, 2019, totaling 38,426 respondents. The surveys were conducted face to face across Africa, Latin America and the Middle East, and on the phone in United States and Canada. In the Asia-Pacific region, face-to-face surveys were conducted in India, Indonesia and the Philippines, while phone surveys were administered in Australia, Japan and South Korea. Across Europe, the survey was conducted over the phone in France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and the UK, but face to face in Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, Poland, Russia, Slovakia and Ukraine.

Here are the  questions  used for the report, along with responses, and the survey  methodology .

Despite major changes in laws and norms surrounding the issue of same-sex marriage and the rights of LGBT people around the world , public opinion on the acceptance of homosexuality in society remains sharply divided by country, region and economic development.

The global divide on acceptance of homosexuality

As it was in 2013 , when the question was last asked, attitudes on the acceptance of homosexuality are shaped by the country in which people live. Those in Western Europe and the Americas are generally more accepting of homosexuality than are those in Eastern Europe, Russia, Ukraine, the Middle East and sub-Saharan Africa. And publics in the Asia-Pacific region generally are split. This is a function not only of economic development of nations, but also religious and political attitudes.

But even with these sharp divides, views are changing in many of the countries that have been surveyed since 2002, when Pew Research Center first began asking this question. In many nations, there has been an increasing acceptance of homosexuality, including in the United States, where 72% say it should be accepted, compared with just 49% as recently as 2007.

Rising acceptance of homosexuality by people in many countries around the world over the past two decades

Many of the countries surveyed in 2002 and 2019 have seen a double-digit increase in acceptance of homosexuality. This includes a 21-point increase since 2002 in South Africa and a 19-point increase in South Korea over the same time period. India also saw a 22-point increase since 2014, the first time the question was asked of a nationally representative sample there.

There also have been fairly large shifts in acceptance of homosexuality over the past 17 years in two very different places: Mexico and Japan. In both countries, just over half said they accepted homosexuality in 2002, but now closer to seven-in-ten say this.

In Kenya, only 1 in 100 said homosexuality should be accepted in 2002, compared with 14% who say this now. (For more on acceptance of homosexuality over time among all the countries surveyed, see Appendix A .)

In many of the countries surveyed, there also are differences on acceptance of homosexuality by age, education, income and, in some instances, gender – and in several cases, these differences are substantial. In addition, religion and its importance in people’s lives shape opinions in many countries. For example, in some countries, those who are affiliated with a religious group tend to be less accepting of homosexuality than those who are unaffiliated (a group sometimes referred to as religious “nones”).

Political ideology also plays a role in acceptance of homosexuality. In many countries, those on the political right are less accepting of homosexuality than those on the left. And supporters of several right-wing populist parties in Europe are also less likely to see homosexuality as acceptable. (For more on how the survey defines populist parties in Europe, see Appendix B .)

Attitudes on this issue are strongly correlated with a country’s wealth. In general, people in wealthier and more developed economies are more accepting of homosexuality than are those in less wealthy and developed economies.

Wealthier countries tend to be more accepting of homosexuality

For example, in Sweden, the Netherlands and Germany, all of which have a per-capita gross domestic product over $50,000, acceptance of homosexuality is among the highest measured across the 34 countries surveyed. By contrast, in Nigeria, Kenya and Ukraine, where per-capita GDP is under $10,000, less than two-in-ten say that homosexuality should be accepted by society.

These are among the major findings of a Pew Research Center survey conducted among 38,426 people in 34 countries from May 13 to Oct. 2, 2019. The study is a follow-up to a 2013 report that found many of the same patterns as seen today, although there has been an increase in acceptance of homosexuality across many of the countries surveyed in both years.

Varied levels of acceptance for homosexuality across globe

Acceptance of homosexuality varies across the globe

The 2019 survey shows that while majorities in 16 of the 34 countries surveyed say homosexuality should be accepted by society, global divides remain. Whereas 94% of those surveyed in Sweden say homosexuality should be accepted, only 7% of people in Nigeria say the same. Across the 34 countries surveyed, a median of 52% agree that homosexuality should be accepted with 38% saying that it should be discouraged.

On a regional basis, acceptance of homosexuality is highest in Western Europe and North America. Central and Eastern Europeans, however, are more divided on the subject, with a median of 46% who say homosexuality should be accepted and 44% saying it should not be.

But in sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, Russia and Ukraine, few say that society should accept homosexuality; only in South Africa (54%) and Israel (47%) do more than a quarter hold this view.

People in the Asia-Pacific region show little consensus on the subject. More than three-quarters of those surveyed in Australia (81%) say homosexuality should be accepted, as do 73% of Filipinos. Meanwhile, only 9% in Indonesia agree.

In the three Latin American countries surveyed, strong majorities say they accept homosexuality in society.

Pew Research Center has been gathering data on acceptance of homosexuality in the U.S. since 1994, and there has been a relatively steady increase in the share who say that homosexuality should be accepted by society since 2000. However, while it took nearly 15 years for acceptance to rise 13 points from 2000 to just before the federal legalization of gay marriage in June 2015, there was a near equal rise in acceptance in just the four years since legalization.

Americans are increasingly accepting of homosexuality in society

While acceptance has increased over the past two decades, the partisan divide on homosexuality in the U.S. is wide. More than eight-in-ten Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents (85%) say homosexuality should be accepted, but only 58% of Republicans and Republican leaners say the same.

At the same time, the U.S. still maintains one of the lowest rates of acceptance among the Western European and North and South American countries surveyed. (For more on American views of homosexuality, LGBT issues and same-sex marriage, see Pew Research Center’s topic page here ; U.S. political and partisan views on this topic can be found here .)

In many countries, younger generations more accepting of homosexuality

In 22 of 34 countries surveyed, younger adults are significantly more likely than their older counterparts to say homosexuality should be accepted by society.

This difference was most pronounced in South Korea, where 79% of 18- to 29-year-olds say homosexuality should be accepted by society, compared with only 23% of those 50 and older. This staggering 56-point difference exceeds the next largest difference in Japan by 20 points, where 92% and 56% of those ages 18 to 29 and 50 and older, respectively, say homosexuality should be accepted by society.

In some countries, women are significantly more accepting of homosexuality than men

In most of the countries surveyed, there are no significant differences between men and women. However, for all 12 countries surveyed where there was significant difference, women were more likely to approve of homosexuality than men. South Korea shows the largest divide, with 51% of women and 37% of men saying homosexuality should be accepted by society.

Those with more education express greater acceptance of homosexuality

In most countries surveyed, those who have greater levels of education are significantly more likely to say that homosexuality should be accepted in society than those who have less education. 1

For example, in Greece, 72% of those with a postsecondary education or more say homosexuality is acceptable, compared with 42% of those with a secondary education or less who say this. Significant differences of this nature are found in both countries with generally high levels of acceptance (such as Italy) and low levels (like Ukraine).

In a similar number of countries, those who earn more money than the country’s national median income also are more likely to say they accept homosexuality in society than those who earn less. In Israel, for instance, 52% of higher income earners say homosexuality is acceptable in society versus only three-in-ten of lower income earners who say the same.

The ideological left is generally more accepting of homosexuality in society

In many of the countries where there are measurements of ideology on a left-right scale, those on the left tend to be more accepting of homosexuality than those on the ideological right. And in many cases the differences are quite large.

In South Korea, for example, those who classify themselves on the ideological left are more than twice as likely to say homosexuality is acceptable than those on the ideological right (a 39-percentage-point difference). Similar double-digit differences of this nature appear in many European and North American countries.

People with favorable views of right-wing populist parties in Europe tend to be less accepting of homosexuality

In a similar vein, those who support right-wing populist parties in Europe, many of which are seen by LGBT groups as a threat to their rights , are less supportive of homosexuality in society. In Spain, people with a favorable opinion of the Vox party, which recently has begun to oppose some gay rights , are much less likely to say that homosexuality is acceptable than those who do not support the party.

And in Poland, supporters of the governing PiS (Law and Justice), which has explicitly targeted gay rights as anathema to traditional Polish values , are 23 percentage points less likely to say that homosexuality should be accepted by society than those who do not support the governing party.

Similar differences appear in neighboring Hungary, where the ruling Fidesz party, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, also has shown hostility to gay rights . But even in countries like France and Germany where acceptance of homosexuality is high, there are differences between supporters and non-supporters of key right-wing populist parties such as National Rally in France and Alternative for Germany (AfD).

People who see religion as less important in their daily lives are more accepting of homosexuality

Religion, both as it relates to relative importance in people’s lives and actual religious affiliation, also plays a large role in perceptions of the acceptability of homosexuality in many societies across the globe.

In 25 of the 34 countries surveyed, those who say religion is “somewhat,” “not too” or “not at all” important in their lives are more likely to say that homosexuality should be accepted than those who say religion is “very” important. Among Israelis, those who say religion is not very important in their lives are almost three times more likely than those who say religion is very important to say that society should accept homosexuality.

Significant differences of this nature appear across a broad spectrum of both highly religious and less religious countries, including Czech Republic (38-percentage-point difference), South Korea (38), Canada (33), the U.S. (29), Slovakia (29), Greece (28) and Turkey (26).

Religious affiliation also plays a key role in views towards acceptance of homosexuality. For example, those who are religiously unaffiliated, sometimes called religious “nones,” (that is, those who identify as atheist, agnostic or “nothing in particular”) tend to be more accepting of homosexuality. Though the opinions of religiously unaffiliated people can vary widely , in virtually every country surveyed with a sufficient number of unaffiliated respondents, “nones” are more accepting of homosexuality than the affiliated. In most cases, the affiliated comparison group is made up of Christians. But even among Christians, Catholics are more likely to accept homosexuality than Protestants and evangelicals in many countries with enough adherents for analysis.

One example of this pattern can be found in South Korea. Koreans who are religiously unaffiliated are about twice as likely to say that homosexuality should be accepted by society (60%) as those who are Christian (24%) or Buddhist (31%). Similarly, in Hungary, 62% of “nones” say society should accept homosexuality, compared with only 48% of Catholics.

In the few countries surveyed with Muslim populations large enough for analysis, acceptance of homosexuality is particularly low among adherents of Islam. But in Nigeria, for example, acceptance of homosexuality is low among Christians and Muslims alike (6% and 8%, respectively). Jews in Israel are much more likely to say that homosexuality is acceptable than Israeli Muslims (53% and 17%, respectively).

  • For the purpose of comparing educational groups across countries, we standardize education levels based on the UN’s International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED). The lower education category is below secondary education and the higher category is secondary or above in Brazil, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Lebanon, Mexico, Nigeria, the Philippines, South Africa, Tunisia and Ukraine. In all other countries, the lower education category is secondary education or less education and the higher category is postsecondary or more education. ↩

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    217 LGBTQ Research Topics & Title Ideas for Essays. The LGBTQ community has progressed in winning equal rights but still faces significant discrimination, and specific LGBT issues remain unresolved. If interested in this subject, look at our LGBTQ title ideas. You'll find a list of LGBTQ research topics for your inspiration - feel free to ...

  8. 131 LGBT Research Paper Topics To Guarantee Success

    Try out any of these topics and get a different view. Views on the third gender. Importance of recognizing and appreciating the third gender. Gay parenting is being embraced globally. Employment discrimination among gay people. Legalization of gay marriages. Protecting the LGBT society. Social media influence on LGBT.

  9. What does the scholarly research say about the effect of gender

    Overview We conducted a systematic literature review of all peer-reviewed articles published in English between 1991 and June 2017 that assess the effect of gender transition on transgender well-being. We identified 55 studies that consist of primary research on this topic, of which 51 (93%) found that gender transition improves the overall well-being of transgender […]

  10. Introduction to the Special Issue: Challenges of LGBT research in the

    Another example is the field of sociopolitical LGBT issues, which has expanded from classic topics such as activism, legal changes and mobilizations (Adam et al., 1999) to include the increasing interest of LGBT topics in social policies at national and regional levels (Padilla, 2004) and in large-scale sociological analysis.

  11. Sexual orientation and gender diversity

    Topics in Psychology. Explore how scientific research by psychologists can inform our professional lives, family and community relationships, emotional wellness, and more. ... Transgender is an umbrella term for people whose gender identity or gender expression does not conform to that typically associated with the sex to which they were ...

  12. Advancing LGBTQI health research

    Since the groundbreaking 2011 UN resolution called for attention to the violence and discrimination committed against individuals because of their sexual orientation and gender identity,1 the visibility of LGBTQI populations has increased globally. There is mounting evidence of LGBTQI health inequities driven by stigma, discrimination, and violence.2 In December, 2020, 70 UN member states had ...

  13. 285 LGBT Essay Topics & Samples

    This work contains the conclusion of the analysis of self-presentation by homosexuals using the film My State of Idaho and the book The City of Night. Nursing: Caring for a Pregnant Lesbian. The second sensitive issue is the family history of diabetes. It is unknown if the patient herself had diabetes in the past.

  14. Documenting Research with Transgender, Nonbinary, and Other Gender

    In addition, this topic included research on the topic of social exclusion, stigma, and marginalization. This topic was distinct from violence and trauma, a subject area that included 47 studies. Verbal abuse, physical abuse, and any other form of violence or trauma were included in the latter category.

  15. Gender Identity

    Black Democrats differ from other Democrats in their views on gender identity, transgender issues. Around two-thirds of Black Democrats (66%) say that whether someone is a man or woman is determined by their sex at birth. reportOct 26, 2022.

  16. Research

    Over the next several years, the LGBTQ Institute will focus on three main areas: 1) Education and Employment, 2) Public Health and Wellness, and 3) Criminal Justice and Safety. The Institute will also conduct gap studies of under-represented issues and populations, develop research briefs, and create the first longitudinal study of LGBTQ people ...

  17. LGBTQ Acceptance

    How people around the world view same-sex marriage. Among the 32 places surveyed, support for legal same-sex marriage is highest in Sweden, where 92% of adults favor it, and lowest in Nigeria, where only 2% back it. short readsJun 14, 2023.

  18. A milestone for researchers focused on LGBTQ health

    The Harvard SOGIE Health Equity Research Collaborative celebrates its 10-year anniversary during Pride Month 2021. June 22, 2021 - One day in June 2011, a handful of Harvard-affiliated researchers sat around a small table in a cramped sixth-floor library in Boston Children's Hospital to talk about forming a collaborative focused on LGBTQ health. At the time, research on the topic was ...

  19. 211 Top LGBT Research Paper Topics & Project Ideas

    Here are some of the most popular LGBT topics for research paper that cover these issues. The biological basis of sexual identification. How sexual orientation has become an added axis of inequality in our society. The impact of the idea of 'Sex as Leisure' on the LGBT community. The concept of consensual non-monogamy.

  20. A qualitative investigation of LGBTQ+ young people's experiences and

    Introduction. Self-management has been defined as, "[t]he taking of responsibility for one's own behaviour and wellbeing" [1, p. 1].There is a lack of conceptual clarity in the self-management literature, as evidenced by multiple conflicting definitions to describe the concept [].For example, one study of chronic disease in older adults argued there is a distinction between 'self-care ...

  21. LGBTQ Attitudes & Experiences

    The Experiences, Challenges and Hopes of Transgender and Nonbinary U.S. Adults. A new Pew Research Center survey finds that 1.6% of U.S. adults are transgender or nonbinary - that is, their gender is different from the sex they were assigned at birth. short readJun 23, 2023.

  22. The Experiences, Challenges and Hopes of Transgender ...

    Pew Research Center conducted this research to better understand the experiences and views of transgender and nonbinary U.S. adults. Because transgender and nonbinary people make up only about 1.6% of the adult U.S. population, this is a difficult population to reach with a probability-based, nationally representative survey.

  23. Views of Homosexuality Around the World

    At the same time, the U.S. still maintains one of the lowest rates of acceptance among the Western European and North and South American countries surveyed. (For more on American views of homosexuality, LGBT issues and same-sex marriage, see Pew Research Center's topic page here; U.S. political and partisan views on this topic can be found here.)